Global Care Force Team Engages with Local Leaders in Mykolaiv to Address Health Needs
by Brenda Poor

On Monday, May 12, a team from Global Care Force carried out a medical outreach initiative in Ukraine’s Mykolaiv region. The visit underscored both the urgent healthcare needs and the ongoing resilience of communities in the region.

As part of the visit, Roxanne Jones, Vice President of Global Programs, Lauren Seaman, Director of Global Strategy and Advancement, and Dr. Lev Prystupiuk, Medical Director for Ukraine, met with local government officials in Mykolaiv. Discussions included Deputy Mayor for Humanitarian and Social Affairs Anatoly Petrov, Head of the Health Department Iryna Shamray, and Adviser on Cooperation Ihor Filipov. Together, they explored ongoing health challenges and potential avenues for partnership, particularly in strengthening and supporting the local healthcare system.

Mykolaiv, a city of nearly 500,000 people founded nearly 250 years ago, has faced continuous attacks since the start of the war due to its proximity to the Russian border. Missile strikes have devastated the city’s infrastructure, resulting in a lack of clean water and frequent power outages. According to Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych, damages from the attacks have exceeded $2.9 billion.

In a separate meeting, the Global Care Force team also met with Jakob Torrild Hansen, Head of the Danish Embassy’s recovery program in Mykolaiv, to discuss shared priorities and opportunities for collaboration. Denmark has made restoration of Mykolaiv and the surrounding region a key focus of its support for Ukraine.

Global Care Force remains committed to walking alongside communities in need and to working collaboratively with local and international partners to bring practical help and lasting impact.