By Jordi Rozenman
War is fought in ways that extend far beyond the battlefield, and the toll the russian invasion has taken is felt in every aspect of Ukrainian life. But, as we know, the darkest of times can sometimes show us the brightest in the human spirit, and Nova Ukraine’s impact can be felt across so many facets of daily life in Ukraine, as well. From within the darkness of the extensive damage to the water supply in the city of Mykolaiv, Nova Ukraine shines the bright light of an update to our earlier story: the installation of solar batteries that will help power the water well we built in 2023.
In April 2022, Mykolaiv’s water grid was essentially destroyed when russian attacks severed the main pipelines that supplied the city with fresh water from the Dnipro. The inhabitants of the port city had to resort to pumping in salt water from the Southern Buh Estuary. Not only was this water not safe for drinking, it corroded the remaining pipes, meaning that residents could not use tap water for drinking, cooking, or even showering without severe burns left on their skin — a strategic form of violence against civilians and the very source of life. For a year, citizens relied on outside shipments and daily trips to clean water stations, rationing according to how much they could carry and how much they would minimally need per day.
But in winter of 2023, Nova Ukraine was able to build a well in Mykolaiv with the generous help of our partners Evgeny Neymer and the water cleaning factory JEWROPE. Along with the well, a filter system that uses Israeli Arkadia Water Treatment equipment ensures that the water is pristine and potable, while maintaining its natural benefits. Now, thanks to the help of our partner RATEC, we are thrilled to announce the addition of the solar batteries, which will continue to power the well sustainably. In more good news, these batteries will also help power the Mykolaiv volunteer center and the project of stove production in the city.
It is truly a miracle to be able to combat such targeted evils as Mykolaiv has suffered with such thoughtful and humane solutions. Nova Ukraine is grateful to everyone who helped bring the addition of the well’s solar batteries to fruition. Although heavy strikes in the region continue, we hope this work will provide hope and encouragement to the residents of Mykolaiv. We stand with you, and will not let you go without your most basic needs, at the least, being addressed. We will continue to look for ways to supply light in places that seem darkest.
Donate. Impact. Change.
We greatly value your support, and it is indeed crucial. Please consider donating monthly. Your consistent contributions are vital to sustaining our efforts and driving meaningful change over time. Your commitment will make a lasting difference, and we sincerely appreciate your consideration. Donate now or learn how you can help.
