How international and local charities support Ukrainian children affected by war
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war continues to affect millions of civilians. People around the world are looking for ways to support Ukrainians – children in particular – and asking what is the best charity to donate to Ukraine in 2026.
In this article, we’ll give a brief overview of international children’s nonprofit organizations and introduce Children of Heroes, a trustworthy local charity that supports children who have lost one or both parents due to the war.
International nonprofit organizations helping children in Ukraine
Well-known child welfare international organizations joined efforts to support children affected by the war in Ukraine. They were among the first to respond, helping children reach safety and access essentials, medical care, and psychological support.
Some of the international charities for children include Save the Children, UNICEF, Plan International, Global Fund for Children, and Convoy of Hope.
International children’s nonprofit organizations usually focus on several main types of support:
- Humanitarian aid for children – delivering food, clean water, hygiene kits, and warm clothing; supporting safe shelter and basic living conditions for families in need.
- Educational support – helping children continue learning through temporary classrooms, repaired schools, digital learning tools, and learning materials.
- Psychological rehabilitation – providing mental health and psychosocial support, running child-friendly spaces, and supporting parents and caregivers.
- Healthcare and medical aid – keeping access to essential child and maternal healthcare, supporting clinics and mobile medical teams, and delivering medical supplies.
- Long-term youth and mentorship programs – offering life-skills and youth programs that give adolescents guidance and adult support over time.
Through these programs, international funds provide assistance to children on a large scale. Most of these organizations also publish detailed financial and impact reports, so donors can see how funds are used.
International vs. local charities: what is the best way to support Ukrainian children?
If you’re deciding what is the best charity to donate to Ukraine in 2026, it helps to understand how international and local charities helping children usually differ. Both play an important role, but they work in different ways.
International charities
Pros:
- Large financial, logistical, and human resources
- High authority and global trust, often supported by governments and major institutions
- Strong experience working in emergencies across many countries
Cons:
- Resources can be redirected when new or higher-profile crises emerge
- Slower decision-making due to complex structures and approval processes
- Programs are often designed to be scalable and universal, which may limit an individual approach
Local charities
Pros:
- Individual, needs-based approach that allows more tailored support
- Long-term commitment to children and families, even after international attention fades
- Faster decisions and delivery due to smaller teams and fewer bureaucratic steps
Cons:
- Lower public visibility and trust compared to well-known global organizations
- Limited funding and smaller operational scale
- Fewer human and financial resources
Children of Heroes: donate to Ukrainian children who have lost their parents
The Children of Heroes Charity Fund was established in March 2022, shortly after the start of the full-scale invasion. The organization provides long-term support to war-affected children who have lost one or both parents.
The Fund works through seven core assistance programs:
- Psychology and socialization
- Education and development
- Medical care
- Humanitarian aid
- Case management
- Family Helpers
- Holiday presents
From the moment a family joins the Fund, they are matched with a dedicated Family Helper. This approach allows the team to understand each child’s situation and provide support based on real needs.
Support continues until the child turns 18 and beyond. The Fund helps teenagers take their first steps into adulthood by offering guidance and mentorship.
As international attention and aid gradually shift to other global crises, Ukrainian children growing up without their parents risk being left alone with long-term challenges. That’s why choosing to donate through local charities plays an important role in ensuring stable support.
Why Children of Heroes is a trustworthy nonprofit organization
501(c)(3) charity
The Children of Heroes of Ukraine Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity registered in Wilmington, Delaware, USA, with additional legal entities in Ukraine and the Netherlands. Donations made by US residents are tax-deductible.
Transparent reporting
The Fund publishes regular monthly and annual reports that detail both financial spending and in-kind support provided to children and families.
Recognition by independent watchdogs
Children of Heroes holds a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, an Effective Organization badge from GlobalGiving, and is a member of Eurochild – a European network focused on children’s rights and well-being.
Coverage by reputable media outlets
Stories about children supported by the Fund have appeared in international media, including The Guardian, The Telegraph, The Times, and CTV News.
How you can help Ukrainian children today
If you want to support orphaned children in Ukraine, there are several meaningful ways to help.
- Make a one-time donation. Your contribution can support psychological care, humanitarian aid, education, and other essential programs.
- Become a monthly supporter. Monthly giving helps provide stable, long-term support for children as their needs continue over time.
- Start a fundraiser. Invite friends and family to support a good cause by creating a digital fundraiser in just a few minutes.
- Spread the word. Share information about Children of Heroes on your social media to help raise awareness.
Conclusion
International nonprofits play an important role during humanitarian crises by providing fast and large-scale support. Over time, however, even a transparent international charity may redirect resources as global priorities change.
If you want to ensure long-term support for children affected by the war, consider trusted local organizations. Charities like Children of Heroes stay focused on children who need ongoing care, even when international attention fades.
FAQ
What does the Children of Heroes Charity Fund do?
Children of Heroes Charity Fund supports Ukrainian children who have lost one or both parents due to the war. The Fund provides long-term assistance focused on psychological support, education, socialization, and meeting essential needs, helping children heal and build a stable future.
Is the Children of Heroes Charity Fund trustworthy?
Yes. The Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit with legal entities in the USA, the Netherlands, and Ukraine. It follows transparent reporting practices, has a clear program focus, works directly with families, and is recognized by independent institutions.
How many children does the Children of Heroes Charity Fund support?
As of January 2026, the Fund supports more than 15,000 children across Ukraine and continues to grow as new families join.
How can I support Children of Heroes?
To support the Fund’s mission, you can:
- make a one-time donation
- become a monthly supporter
- start a fundraiser
- help spread the word on social media
All options are available through the Fund’s official website.
Are donations to Children of Heroes tax-deductible?
Yes, in many countries.
- United States: donations are tax-deductible through the Fund’s 501(c)(3) registered organization.
- Netherlands: donations are tax-deductible via the Dutch ANBI entity (childrenheroes.nl).
- European Union: tax relief may apply when donating via the Dutch ANBI entity, depending on your country.
- Canada, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and others: tax-deductible options may be available through partner organizations.
For country-specific details, please contact [email protected].