The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) have signed a €2 million grant agreement to finance housing repairs for over 500 vulnerable households in conflict-affected areas of Ukraine. This will be the CEB's first operation in the country since Ukraine joined the Bank on 15 June 2023.
Internally displaced persons returning to their homes often find their houses or apartment buildings uninhabitable as a result of the war. Assessments by CRS and CARITAS show that most buildings are structurally sound but have suffered light to medium damage, especially broken windows and doors, and damage to walls and roofs.
The CEB-funded project will finance repairs for households whose houses or apartment buildings are deemed structurally safe but need repairs. The project will target vulnerable households, including families headed by women, elderly, persons with disabilities, and families with few financial resources.
"Ukraine's accession to the CEB was completed less than three months ago and we are already delivering on an operation on the ground. The grant to Catholic Relief Services will target those who are most vulnerable and in need of urgent assistance. We are certain that this initiative helps accelerating the implementation of important housing projects in Ukraine, with CEB's financial support and expertise," said CEB Governor Carlo Monticelli.
