These programs, initiated in 1994, allow children to temporarily escape the consequences of the contaminated zone and, more recently, the impact of the war. Stays take place during summer and Christmas holidays, providing a safe and supportive environment.
“"Being a child affected by Chernobyl meant nothing in real life; you didn't feel strange because we were all more or less the same."
One of the hosted individuals, who arrived in Valencia at nine years old, recalls that the situation in her home area was not perceived as exceptional. Her host family observed a significant change in her, as here she received the protection and help she needed.
According to the president of the Juntos por la Vida association, Clara Arnal, the programs focus on a very vulnerable area of Chernobyl, with severe social and economic problems stemming from the nuclear catastrophe. Precariousness and dysfunctional families are a reality. Furthermore, minors who have been able to leave the contaminated zone multiple times have a lower risk of suffering from radiation-related illnesses.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine over three years ago, the conflict has directly affected the region, bringing some areas near Chernobyl back into focus due to military presence and instability. This situation has generated new hosting needs, and more children are expected to arrive in Valencia in the coming months to continue their studies.
“"We have the mentality of not living long-term or planning anything."
The war has also caused complex situations in the Chernobyl area, with occupations of houses abandoned for decades, some in spaces with a risk of radioactive contamination. Paradoxically, the absence of humans for decades has allowed nature to regenerate in an area marked by one of history's worst nuclear catastrophes.
