A Day of New Experiences: CFSR Supported a Children’s Trip to the Bilsk Hillfort
On 22 August, 43 children and 4 accompanying adults travelled from Kharkiv to the Bilsk Hillfort in Poltava Oblast for a day filled with new experiences, communication, creativity, and support.
The trip for children from selected groups in Kharkiv Oblast was organised by NGO “Mental Healing”. CFSR joined the initiative by providing bus transportation for the group along the route Kharkiv — Bilsk Hillfort — Bilsk — Kharkiv. The trip took place with the support of the Relief Coordination Centre.
The day began early in the morning in Kharkiv. A full programme awaited the children: an introduction to the Bilsk Hillfort, a shared outdoor lunch, creative activities, and sessions with psychologists.
During the guided tour, the children learned more about the history of the Bilsk Hillfort, its unique features, and its cultural heritage. For many of them, it was an opportunity not only to discover a new place, but also to spend time outside their usual environment, communicate with peers, and gain positive new experiences.
After the tour, the participants gathered for a shared outdoor lunch and then continued the programme in Bilsk. There, the children took part in an interactive creative activity and a psychological training session in groups — a space for communication, interaction, support, and new connections.
Particular attention was paid to safety throughout the trip. The route and the group’s movements were planned in advance, the team monitored the security situation, and the accompanying adults were prepared to respond in the event of an air raid alert.
In the evening, after the programme had finished, the CFSR bus brought the children and accompanying adults back to Kharkiv.
For us, trips like this are about much more than transportation from one place to another. They are an opportunity to help children take part in meaningful programmes, discover new places, communicate, learn, and gain positive experiences.
We sincerely thank NGO “Mental Healing” for organising the trip and programme for the children, the Relief Coordination Centre for its support and partnership, the Bilsk Hillfort team and guides for an engaging introduction to the history of this unique place, as well as the psychologists and everyone who accompanied the children for their care and support throughout the day.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this day safe, meaningful, and truly memorable for the children.
