What Is This Project?
Children in Ukraine live under constant stress due to the war.
MHPSS Support for Children in Bomb Shelters is a psychosocial support programme for children experiencing war-related stress.
We use a proven methodology: creating origami featuring traditional Ukrainian patterns helps reduce anxiety among children.
The programme operates in schools, bomb shelters and Kyiv Metro stations across Kyiv and the Kyiv region. Ukrainian TV presenter Kateryna Osadcha serves as the initiative’s ambassador.
Our solution
Origami as Therapy — a Proven Stress-Reduction Method
Origami Featuring Ukrainian Patterns
Specially designed origami kits featuring traditional Ukrainian ornaments. The folding process helps children focus their attention and reduce cortisol levels.
Books for Children
Illustrated books that help children talk about their emotions and discover ways to cope with anxiety.
Volunteer Network
Our trained volunteers lead sessions in schools, bomb shelters and metro stations—where children need support most.
Ambassador Support
Kateryna Osadcha serves as the initiative’s ambassador, personally taking part in activities with children and raising public awareness of the issue.
Why Origami Works — the Scientific Rationale
Focused Attention
Folding origami requires concentration, helping shift a child’s attention away from anxious thoughts and towards a constructive activity.
Fine Motor Skills
Working with paper stimulates neural connections associated with calming and regulating the nervous system.
Cultural Identity
Ukrainian patterns foster a sense of belonging and safety by connecting children with their cultural heritage.
Social Interaction
Group sessions create a safe space where children can communicate and offer one another emotional support.
Team and Scaling
Experienced Psychologists and Trained Volunteers
The programme is developed and overseen by professional psychologists with experience supporting children in crisis situations.
Every volunteer completes specialised training before beginning work with children.
The UHI team has experience implementing MHPSS programmes and works in line with IASC international standards and WHO recommendations for psychosocial support in conflict settings.
Expanding the Programme to More Schools and Communities across Kyiv and the Kyiv Region
In the new season, we plan to expand the programme to more schools and community spaces.
Our goal is to reach as many children in need of support as possible.
We welcome partnerships with donors supporting MHPSS, child protection and education in conflict settings.
International Research Confirms the Effectiveness of Origami Therapy
Clinical Study, Indonesia (2018)
A quasi-experimental study conducted at Pertamina Bintang Amin Hospital found a statistically significant reduction in anxiety among children aged 5–12 following origami therapy.
IMC Project in Ukraine
International Medical Corps held origami sessions for teachers in the village of Sofiivka, Mykolaiv region, near the front line, to help reduce stress and restore emotional balance.
Clinical Study, India
Thirty-minute daily origami therapy sessions over seven days led to a significant reduction in anxiety among children aged 6–10 (p < 0.001). The method was confirmed to be simple and cost-effective.
Dove of Peace
The Office of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict used origami as an advocacy tool. Children folded their messages into peace doves for an installation at United Nations Headquarters.
The Programme in Action
Real sessions with children — photos from the programme.
