Today marks the 21st anniversary of the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation. Over the past two decades, the Foundation and SCM companies have reached over 33 million people through 70 different social programmes. The organisation continues to expand its efforts to support the defenders of Ukraine, children, and civilians affected by the war, adapting its work to meet the most urgent needs.
Facts and figures:
- Foundation & SCM has helped 33 million people through 70 social programmes
- Assisted almost 6 million of Ukraine’s most vulnerable children
- Saving Lives initiative has delivered almost 13.5 million food packages to frontline communities
- Museum of Civilian Voices preserved more than 145,000 eyewitness stories
How did the foundation begin its work?
The Rinat Akhmetov Foundation was established 21 years ago to provide humanitarian support to those in need. Over this time, it has implemented around 70 social projects. Founder Rinat Akhmetov notes that charity begins with a simple decision not to ignore the trouble of others. Today, the primary duty of the Foundation is to support the defenders of Ukraine and help peaceful citizens who have lost their homes, health, or loved ones due to the war. The goal is to invest in the recovery of Ukraine and the people who will build its future.
How does the foundation respond to the war?
Since 2014, the Foundation has focused on helping people in eastern Ukraine. After the full-scale invasion in 2022, these efforts grew into the Saving Lives initiative. Through this programme, almost 13.5 million food packages have been delivered to frontline communities. Another priority is supporting the defenders of Mariupol. Working with the Heart of Azovstal project, the Foundation provides housing and full rehabilitation for military personnel and those returning from captivity, helping them return to an active life.
What programmes support children and youth?
Care for children is a constant focus. Almost 6 million boys and girls have received support. The Foundation has helped 11,000 orphans find new families and provided treatment and rehabilitation for hundreds of children injured during the war with russia. In 2026, a new project called Youth Chooses Ukraine was launched for people aged 18 to 23. Working with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, this project helps young people who were deported or displaced adapt to life after their traumatic experiences.
How does the Foundation provide mental health support to Ukrainians?
To address the deep mental health impact of the war, the Foundation established a unique psychological support system. By training 250 local specialists in global practices, it has provided psychological help to over 2 million Ukrainians in schools, hospitals, and shelters. This systematic assistance helps people cope with traumatic experiences and find the strength to move forward.
How does the Foundation preserve the history of the war?
To ensure the truth is preserved for future generations, the Foundation created the Museum of Civilian Voices. This archive now holds over 145,000 eyewitness stories, serving as a vital record of national memory. These materials also provide an important base of evidence for international courts regarding the war of russia against Ukraine.
