U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink and USAID Ukraine Chief of Mission James Hope visited the office of the NGO “Modern Format” during their visit to Zhytomyr.
The honorable guests talked to the organization’s team and internally displaced people, who moved to Zhytomyr from the war-affected regions.
The importance of supporting the civil society sector during the war was emphasized by the Executive Director of the NGO “Modern Format” Zhanna Solovyova, who is currently in Germany at the conference “Strengthening Civil Society in the Eastern Partnership Countries”.
“Now the role of civil society organizations in Ukraine has become increasingly important. Our team actively helps war victims, internally displaced people, unites volunteers, partners and friends. I thank Isar Ednannia and USAID for strengthening the sustainability of civil society organizations in Ukraine. Thanks to your support, we are able to help others, strengthen our own capabilities and grow,” emphasized Zhanna Solovyova.
Brigitte Brink noted that the United States was impressed by the courage demonstrated by the Ukrainian people and civil society in particular.
“I know that civil society organizations like Modern Format have been a driving force since the first days of the war, saving lives, providing humanitarian aid, medical support and shelter for IDPs across the country, and even supporting the Ukrainian army.
We are inspired by your bravery and your dedication to your mission, despite the personal risks each of you face every day.
The work you do in support of other civil society organizations, the residents of your communities and the thousands of IDPs who have migrated from conflict zones to Zhytomyr since 2014, as well as for the Ukrainian armed forces, is vital and inspiring.
I am proud that USAID, working with our long-term partner Ednannia, supports organizations like yours. We are committed to continuing to help civil society expand its reach, build its capacity, and continue its efforts to support Ukraine and its citizens both during the war and as Ukraine rebuilds after its victory,” said Brigitte Brink.
