The House of Mercy: Refuge in the embattled city of Nikopol.
Addiction. Homelessness. Disability. Mental illness.
These struggles don’t pause for war. The loss of public infrastructure and collapsing local economies only deepen the hardship for Ukraine’s most vulnerable.
For Vova, the head and founder of the House of Mercy and a member of Insulate Ukraine’s Nikopol team, protecting these individuals is his life’s mission.
A recovered addict himself, Vova credits a home like this as the key to beating his addiction — and is committed to providing the same lifeline to others facing battles like Hundreds have come through its doors.
The center offers rehabilitation, medical care, and help with documents and finances for members — including recovering addicts, disabled citizens, and the homeless. Vova donates half his salary from his work with Insulate Ukraine to keep the center running. Those who have completed recovery also work for the charity, donating wages to sustain the building and help others.
Serhii, a resident of the center, has found purpose here:
“I came here sick — addiction-related illnesses so serious that I wouldn’t have survived out in the world. Now I’m a healthy man, and I work — I’m doing something good for people. We’re helping during a time when our country is suffering, and it can’t always provide people with everything they need. Foundations like this are essential. You bring a great deal of good to people. This is my life.”
These are men of faith — a faith that guides their recovery and drives them to charity for their neighbors. They remain in their communities, helping others survive.
God too seems to be with these men.
A few months ago, a Russian shell landed in the yard, its fragments still visible in the pockmarked walls. Serhii was sitting outside when it struck — less than seven meters away. He should have died.
Instead, he walked away with only shrapnel scars. Smiling, Serhii recalled the moment “It’s a miracle I survived” As he looked out at the yard, a light came into his eye,
“Це Бог”
Why it matters to our work: Insulate Ukraine operates in Nikopol—delivering warmth, light, and protection by sealing shattered windows with our rapid-response insulation kits. Our employees are more than workers; they are community-minded individuals whose roles with Insulate Ukraine create a ripple effect of support for others.
What you can do:
– Share the film with friends or family who may not understand what’s happening on the ground
– Donate to support the House of Mercy through the Ukraine Shortlist (Listed as its parent name Vidnova) Donate to House of Mercy
– Support Insulate Ukraine’ emergency window replacement work. Donate to Insulate Ukraine
– Write to your elected officials and tell them Ukraine still needs our support
Thank you for being part of this fight for light, shelter, and survival.
— Zachary
Originally published via email on 09 August 2025.
View the original email version
