The government of Ukraine has initiated a new experimental project titled "Family Home" aimed at providing support for children without parental care.
The project seeks to create conditions that closely resemble a family environment, where specialists will assist children in adapting to independent living.
On October 1, the Cabinet of Ministers made the decision to launch this initiative, as reported by the Ministry of Social Policy.
The initiative involves the establishment of special houses or apartments for children who cannot or do not wish to live in families. Here, they will learn independence and household management.
Professionals will work with the children to ensure their socialization and help them feel safe and cared for.
"Every child will have the opportunity to have their own space and the right to their own opinion, as well as live close to their siblings.
A team of specialists will work with the children, including a family educator, social worker, psychologist, and other specialists as needed," the ministry emphasized.
The project will last for two years and cover 12 regions of Ukraine. Funding will be a joint effort from state and local budgets.
"This will allow us to test a new model and prepare the groundwork for its expansion across the country," the ministry noted.
The first two "Family Homes" are planned to be established in Kyiv and Chernivtsi regions. Each of them will accommodate a group of up to eight children, or six if there are children with disabilities among them.
"It is vital for each child to feel the warmth and care of a home. We are moving away from institutional solutions to create conditions that are as close to home as possible. This is not only about a new living format but also about respecting the child's dignity and their right to care in a safe environment.
The "Family Home" is an opportunity for those children who currently find it difficult to find a family, to not remain isolated but to learn to trust adults and prepare for the future," said Iryna Tulakova, head of the Coordination Center for Family Care Development.
Reminder: starting January 2026, the government plans to increase payments to foster parents.