In the theoretical part of my master's thesis, I explored the reasons for the institutionalization of children and the impacts that such forms of care can have on a child's life and well-being. I further focused on the child protection system, with particular attention to the principle of the best interests of the child and the right to family life. In this context, I also analyzed the role of the community and social work in maintaining children's mental health, with an emphasis on the importance of providing support to children facing mental distress. With this broad theoretical framework, I aimed to contribute to a better understanding of the needs and rights of children who were evacuated from a Ukrainian institution for children without parental care and who were exposed to traumatic events such as the loss of family surroundings, institutional care, and displacements due to war. These experiences can cause deep emotional distress that negatively affects the child's mental health and overall development, as they lose the sense of security, predictability, and emotional support—key foundations for their well-being. Therefore, these children need comprehensive support and assistance, which enables the gradual establishment of trust, acceptance, and belonging. The empirical part is based on the responses and experiences of volunteers and professionals who provided support to the children. The findings of the research emphasize that a holistic approach, which includes both informal and formal sources of help, is necessary for the successful adaptation of children to their new environment. They also highlight the need for additional support from professionals and volunteers, mentoring, cultural advocacy, and inter-institutional cooperation.
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