Self-reliance and livelihoods

2021

The self-reliance grants programme was adjusted taking into account quarantine restrictions and the duration of the lockdown. In total, 17 livelihoods grants were allocated - 14 business grants and 3 vocational training grants. Special attention was paid to the applicants offering a solution for remote job opportunities and online studying (for vocational training grants) and who had a clear vision on how to adapt their business activities to quarantine conditions. One refugee was granted funds to cover the last year of medical internship costs to qualify for a family doctor position after graduation. Another beneficiary with complementary protection status received vocational training grant to finish specialized dentist courses to start medical practice.  

UNHCR provided COVID-related cash assistance to cover urgent needs of 636 asylum-seeking households and refugees who were most affected by the socioeconomic impact of COVID-19.  

Unilever donated 4,250 cleaning products and hygienic items to Zakarpattya, Odesa and Yahotyn temporary accommodation centers (TAC). UNHCR facilitated delivery while distribution was done by TAC management and UNHCR partners in the regions. This was one of the several donations of hygienic items from Unilever Ukraine to people of concern since the start of the pandemic.  

In April-May 2021, the State provided a one-time “quarantine subsidy” of UAH 8,000 ($300) for self-employed entrepreneurs and employees during the “red zone” period when they lost jobs or profit. UNHCR partners assisted nine recognized refugees and complementary protection status holders to access this one-time state assistance.  

Language courses, life skills trainings and community activities continued to be held mostly online to comply with COVID-19 restrictions.  

More details on general situation with livelihoods and self-reliance are available under the Protection and Mixed Solutions goal.