Roseland, NJ – July 29, 2025 — As Russia’s 2025 summer offensive escalates, northern Ukrainian communities near the Russian border are facing unprecedented devastation. The city of Sumy, located just 40 kilometers from the front, is under daily threat from missile strikes and drone attacks. In response, Hope For Ukraine Sumy Humanitarian Aid has mobilized on the ground, assisting with emergency evacuations and delivering life-saving aid to families caught in the conflict.

Since the beginning of the offensive, HFU has supported thousands of displaced Ukrainians. Many of those fleeing are elderly residents who were forced to abandon their homes. Entire villages near the frontline have been destroyed, and towns farther from the fighting are overwhelmed by the surge of internally displaced people. In some parts of the Sumy region, populations have tripled nearly overnight as families seek safety wherever they can.

“Sumy is under daily attack,” said HFU Founder and CEO Yuriy Boyechko. “Russian drones terrorize the streets. Just last week, one struck a car in the city and engulfed it in flames. These aren’t isolated incidents—Russia is clearly attempting to turn Sumy into the next Kherson.”

To meet growing needs, Hope For Ukraine Sumy Humanitarian Aid has expanded its Family Support Project, increasing weekly food kit distributions from 1,500 to over 1,700 families. These kits include essential nutrition, hygiene items, and basic supplies that are vital for survival in areas where infrastructure has collapsed and supply lines have been disrupted.

Four children stand outdoors near a fence and a house. Two are holding plastic bags with a blue and yellow logo, part of Kindness Across Kriviy Rih. In the background, there’s a car and lush greenery.

To improve coordination and reach more people faster, HFU launched the Hope mobile app in June. The app allows displaced Ukrainians to request emergency aid, access real-time updates, and connect with HFU’s local partner network. Volunteers also use the app to better coordinate deliveries and reach families in urgent need without delay.

Delivering aid in Sumy has become increasingly dangerous. Russian surveillance drones pose a constant threat to HFU vehicles and personnel. Most recently, two HFU volunteers were injured in a drone strike while delivering food and supplies. Nevertheless, the organization remains active on the ground, determined to reach families who are most at risk.

“This is a story of resilience,” said Boyechko. “As global attention shifts elsewhere, we remain committed to standing with those who are enduring the harshest impacts of this war.”

Hope For Ukraine urges its supporters not to look away. Every donation powers evacuations, emergency relief, and the mobile infrastructure behind Hope For Ukraine Sumy Humanitarian Aid effor that saves lives each day. 

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