The Red Cross summarized its work for 2023 in the Vitebsk region
– A lot has been done by the Vitebsk Regional Organization of the Belarusian Red Cross, but the main thing is not to slow down, – emphasized Vyacheslav Durnov. – I am confident that the ideas and opportunities we have will be utilized and implemented. In this regard, it is necessary to constantly strengthen the organization's potential, its material and technical base, develop interaction with government bodies and non-governmental structures, educational and healthcare institutions, enterprises, and organizations. Our entire society should be involved in this work. The financing of the Belarusian Red Cross is mainly formed from membership fees, in connection with which it is necessary to improve the work of primary organizations. Thus, for 2024, we have set ourselves the task of switching to a declarative principle for calculating membership fees. We are setting a benchmark of 85%, but we need to strive to increase it. This work needs to be actively engaged in.
The Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Organization of the Belarusian Red Cross, Galina Zhelanova, emphasized that 2023 was a period of creating a reliable foundation that allows us to move forward, applying new opportunities dictated by the times, and thanks to specific initiatives, many people received real help. Thus, from March to April 2023, the organization's staff and volunteers provided assistance to the population affected by the spring floods in the Vitebsk region. Within two weeks, trips were made to the Verkhnedvinsk, Gorodok, Miory, Shumilin, and Polotsk districts to assess the situation, provide humanitarian and household assistance, and psychosocial support. During the response operation, food and hygiene kits, and drinking water were delivered to 79 households affected by the flood.
The medico-social service "Dapamoga" of the Vitebsk Regional Organization of the Belarusian Red Cross assisted 77 beneficiaries, including 68 who received services within the framework of the state social order. In 2023, activities continued to support refugees from Ukraine and other countries, who were provided with cash and voucher assistance. The crisis center continued its work, accommodating 19 individuals in need of temporary housing. The organization's psychologist and psychosocial support specialist worked with migrants from Ukraine at the center.
The Vitebsk Regional Organization implemented 14 international projects in the region. The organization is supported by 2240 volunteers.
In 2024, the Red Cross in the Vitebsk region will introduce a new form of teamwork: the social order will extend beyond healthcare to include the committee for labor, employment, and social protection of the regional executive committee. Three teams will be formed in Novopolotsk, Orsha, and Polotsk, which will allow for serving as many lonely citizens as possible.
The summary concluded with the presentation of well-deserved awards for active participation and significant contributions to achieving the goals and objectives of the Belarusian Red Cross. The final meeting was attended by deputy chairpersons of city and district executive committees, chief physicians of healthcare institutions of the Vitebsk region, and Russian partners from the northern region – representatives of the Pskov region.
Vyacheslav Durnov also drew attention to the importance of the upcoming electoral campaign. For the first time, a Unified Voting Day will be held on February 25, which is provided for by the updated Constitution. Understanding the importance of this socio-political event for the development of the country and the maintenance of stability and well-being of Belarusian society, it is necessary to carry out appropriate informational and organizational work in your teams.
"Vitebskiye Vesti"