Ukraine’s new eSupport program received over 2.1 million applications on its first day of operation, including nearly half a million for children, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Dec. 1.
"eSupport works for everyone in Ukraine – both adults and children. The numbers are important and prove the timeliness of the program," Zelensky said on Telegram.
The assistance, amounting to 1,000 hryvnias ($24) per recipient, can be used for Ukrainian goods and services such as utilities, medicines, books, transportation, and education or donated to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces through volunteer funds.
Applications are open until February 28, 2024, and the funds must be spent by the end of 2025.
The initiative aims to provide some economic relief to citizens while fostering support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Around 32% of Ukrainian families have enough income only to buy food, according to a survey published by the ZN.ua media outlet on July 25.
Over 48% of respondents said their families "have enough finance for food and clothes but have to save for something more expensive," while 9% said they "do not have enough money even for food."
Only 7.4% of the respondents can afford everything and require savings only for very expensive purchases. Nearly 1% said that their family can afford anything they want.
Martin Fornusek
(Updated: )
