The Roma organization “Khamoro” was founded in December 2021 in the city of Izmail, Odesa region. Despite its young age, it has already become visible in the public life of the region. Its mission is to support the Roma community, which still faces numerous challenges, from economic difficulties to prejudice and discrimination.
“Khamoro” has set ambitious goals—to help the most vulnerable families, develop educational opportunities for children and youth, promote social integration of Roma people, and foster a tolerant society.
Since its establishment, the organization has managed to provide targeted humanitarian aid to many Roma families. This includes food packages, hygiene products, and support in difficult life situations. It is an important example that even with minimal resources, real change for people is possible.
Another area of activity is cooperation with local educational institutions. Children from Roma families study in schools and gymnasiums of Izmail alongside other students. Whenever difficulties or conflicts arise, “Khamoro” steps in to help resolve them, protecting children’s rights and ensuring equal access to education.
A particularly important partner of the organization has become the boxing club “Gladiator.” Here Roma children can train for free, take part in competitions, and feel part of the sports community. With the support of local authorities and partners, club trainees have received awards and even school backpacks for their sporting achievements. This is an example of how sport can serve as a tool of integration and motivation for the younger generation.
Festive initiatives have also become an important direction. For example, “Khamoro” organized New Year greetings for Roma children, giving gifts and creating an atmosphere of joy and support.
Currently, “Khamoro” does not have its own premises, which significantly limits the opportunities to organize cultural and educational events. However, the team is already working on launching training programs for children and youth and holding Roma culture days in Izmail.
An important future direction will be awareness-raising work. The organization plans to launch anti-discrimination campaigns aimed at combating stereotypes and increasing the level of tolerance in society.
“We hope that ‘Khamoro’ will become a platform for supporting the Roma community, developing cultural and educational initiatives, and contributing to the dignified representation of Roma people in public life,” the organization states.
The Roma community in Ukraine still faces a difficult path to integration. It often struggles with poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and social isolation. That is why organizations like “Khamoro” play a significant role—they not only help Roma people overcome everyday challenges but also build bridges between the community and society, proving that change is possible.
In the future, the organization aims to strengthen partnerships with local authorities, schools, civic initiatives, and international donors, since only joint efforts can create conditions for equal opportunities, decent living, and the development of the Roma community in Izmail and the Odesa region.
Author: Yana Radchenko
