The Florence Centre

What is The Florence Centre?

The Florence Centre is a unique community development program located in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine. Families who once kept their children at home, ashamed of their disabilities, now have a place to gather for support. University students who come to the Florence Centre to do their social work practicums find their lives are impacted positively as they interact with the community. Communitas, in connection with Canada Ukraine Agrarian Development Inc., has partnered with The Florence Centre since 2007.

Lucy Romanankova, director of the Florence Centre, says the needs in her community are great and she is appreciative of the support they receive through Communitas.

“We are always impressed that people who live in Canada think about Ukraine,” she says. “We are very, very grateful for your support and encouragement.”

Who is The Florence Centre for?

The Florence Centre is committed to education and support of children, adults and families dealing with disabilities, abuse, addiction and mental health issues.

The Florence Centre addresses the difficult challenges in its community through several projects including:

• Workshops on bullying for high school students
• Addressing domestic violence issues
• Caregiver professional development and support
• Parents’ support club
• Seniors’ support club
• Educational resources for clients and personnel
• Counselling services
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) educational presentations