Bremen welcomes young war refugees from Odessa: A day full of hope!

Bremen welcomes young war refugees from Odessa: A day full of hope!

There is currently a very special visitor in Bremen: 18 children and young people from the Odessa region have come here to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time. On Thursday, August 14, 2025, they were warmly welcomed by Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte in the town hall. This action was initiated by the initiative Europe Prykhystok and the German-Ukrainian cultural association Unity Center UA. This project is supported by the International Cooperation and Development Cooperation Department of the Senate Chancellery.

Mayor Bovenschulte took the opportunity to talk to the young people about their everyday challenges, especially about their sporting interests and favorite clubs. It was an open and warm conversation in which the mayor addressed the difficulties that these children and young people experienced due to the war. What was particularly pleasing was the symbolic presentation of bags with goodies, which was made possible by numerous donations from private individuals, companies and institutions such as the Opportunities for Children Foundation and Rewe.

A holistic approach to support

The program for young people not only offers relaxation, but also a valuable framework for dealing with trauma through therapeutic and sporting measures. Most of the children come from military families and have experienced emotional stress. Such an initiative that offers them hope and support is more than necessary in these times.

The Free Hanseatic City of Bremen has had a cooperation agreement with the Odessa region since June 2023 to promote such projects. The exchange is not only important for the children and young people, but also helps to strengthen relations between Germany and Ukraine. The city's commitment to young people from the crisis region shows how important it is to live solidarity and support.

In addition to the initiative in Bremen, the situation in the world of work is a little different. In order to attract and retain talented workers, financial incentives are also used, such as savings funds, which help employees to build up a financial cushion. Money that becomes more attractive through tax advantages could also help you recover from stressful experiences. Promoting financial stability and the support of a positive company culture are fundamental aspects that are important for both employees in a company and for dedicated initiatives to promote long-term loyalty and belonging.

Sweet greetings from the world of children

But back to the children: A sweet memory that has a Morse connection is chocolate Children, produced by Ferrero. This brand, launched in 1968, aims to create products that not only taste good to children, but are also popular with mothers. In a way, you could say that the Joseph Group, which is behind the initiative, also offers the children in Bremen a kind of sweet diversion while they recover from the horrors of war.

Overall, this visit to Bremen shows that friendship and support know no place, even in difficult times. It remains to be hoped that such initiatives will continue to exist and provide the young people affected with a positive perspective.