Inspiring Ways to help homeless pets in Vinnytsia

Every day, compassionate individuals dedicate their time and resources to save vulnerable animals. The U-Hearts Foundation is honored to share the inspiring stories of two dedicated volunteers from Vinnytsia who work tirelessly to help homeless pets.

Olena Rozsokha lives in Vinnytsia and has dedicated many years of her life to rescuing vulnerable animals. Her remarkable journey began quite simply by refusing to walk past hungry, sick, or abandoned dogs and cats on the street. What initially started as a small effort of feeding animals gradually grew into a comprehensive mission to help stray dogs and cats. Over the years, Olena has taken on the massive responsibility of arranging veterinary treatment, organizing sterilization procedures, finding temporary foster homes, and ultimately helping these animals find loving, permanent families. In addition to her hands-on work, she has successfully built a network of compassionate people who are willing to support animals in need.

Today, Olena continues to care for dozens of animals. She feeds many of them every single day, arranges their medical care, and works tirelessly to find responsible adopters. Despite her dedicated efforts, the number of animals in need continues to grow. One rescue in particular has stayed with her: a small dog that had been abandoned on the street. Despite Olena’s extensive efforts, the original owners were never found. While many people expressed interest in adopting the dog, they only wanted it for breeding purposes. Unwilling to let the animal be exploited, Olena made the decision to give the dog a permanent home herself. Today, that dog lives safely, surrounded by love and exceptional care. For Olena, the greatest motivation is being able to assist those who cannot ask for help themselves. human neglect.

Lidiia Volovodova is a finance professional from Vinnytsia who has spent the past decade deeply involved in animal welfare. While this work is not part of her professional career, it has become an essential part of her life and a mission to which she feels deeply committed. Her volunteering journey began by caring for the cats and dogs living in her own neighborhood. As she became increasingly aware of the growing number of abandoned animals in need of food, medical care, and protection, her efforts gradually expanded into a highly organized, long-term commitment.

Today, Lidiia personally cares for seven rescued animals in her own home. Furthermore, she coordinates vital support for approximately 50 stray cats and 24 stray dogs. She ensures they consistently receive food, essential veterinary care, and necessary medication. This vast effort relies heavily on the generous support of donors and fellow volunteers, allowing her to continue this life-saving work. One specific rescue story remains exceptionally close to her heart. Someone had heartlessly abandoned a litter of sick kittens in a garbage bin. Lidiia took them in, patiently nursed them back to health, and provided them with a safe home. Today, they have grown into beautiful, healthy cats that people frequently mistake for purebred animals.

Both of these incredible women demonstrate that every life saved is a highly meaningful victory. What keeps Lidiia going is her belief that every life matters. She states that it is impossible to walk away when you know you have the power to ease the suffering of an animal that has no voice to ask for assistance.

Olena shares a similar, powerful message for others: she urges people not to be indifferent. As she highlights, even a small act of kindness can save a life. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of volunteers like Olena and Lidiia, countless abandoned and vulnerable animals receive a second chance and the vital opportunity to find safety, care, and a loving home.