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USF – Foundation for Psychosocial Crisis Assistance to Ukrainian War Refugees
USF is one of our closest partners and an important part of the story behind PURK Kool. Since 2022, the foundation has grown from a local humanitarian initiative into an organisation involved in national and international projects, supporting refugees through education, psychosocial assistance, community development, and integration.
Every organisation has a beginning, and for PURK Kool, our connection with USF is an important part of that story.
The Foundation for Psychosocial Crisis Assistance to Ukrainian War Refugees (USF) was established in 2022, following the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
What started as a small humanitarian initiative in Pärnu gradually developed into a broader support network, expanding its activities to Tallinn and bringing together dedicated volunteers, professionals, and community leaders.
Initially focused on emergency assistance and psychosocial support for Ukrainian refugees, USF developed a wide range of educational, social, and community programmes. These included children's activities, language learning, cultural events, psychological support, informal education, and initiatives helping newcomers adapt to life in Estonia.
Over time, the foundation expanded its cooperation with local authorities, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, and international partners.
USF has participated in the UNHCR-coordinated Regional Refugee Response Plan and international European projects, including Erasmus+ POMEIL and MESUR, collaborating with partners from different countries to develop educational resources, strengthen professional skills, and create new opportunities for refugees and migrants.
For the team behind PURK Kool, this cooperation represents much more than a formal partnership. It is part of our shared history, professional growth, and the experience that helped shape our own community organisation.
Through years of practical work, international cooperation, and community engagement, we have developed valuable knowledge, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of how local initiatives can grow into sustainable organisations.
We are sincerely grateful to USF for its trust, cooperation, shared experience, and the opportunities it has opened for our team and community.
Today, we continue working together, developing initiatives that connect people, encourage lifelong learning, strengthen integration, and support inclusive communities.
What began with people coming together to help others continues to grow into new partnerships, projects, and opportunities.