On September 1, 2026, Düsseldorf came together for the “Every Empty Seat in a Classroom Tells a Story” partnership event, organized by UkraineHilfe Düsseldorf, AVP and United Help Ukraine, in solidarity with Ukrainian children on Ukraine’s Day of Knowledge, the traditional start of the school year.
At the marketplace in front of Düsseldorf City Hall, the “Every Empty Seat in a Classroom Tells a Story” solidarity action brought together community members, Ukrainian children, officials, and partners to draw attention to the challenges Ukrainian schoolchildren continue to face because of Russia’s war.
The event highlighted the urgent need for safe learning spaces as Russia continues to target educational institutions, as well as the impact of our partnership project to equip school bomb shelters.
Stadt Düsseldorf primary schools have donated, and we have delivered, more than 2,900 school desks and 6,500 school chairs to schools across Ukraine, helping create safer learning environments where children can continue their education.
We are proud of this continued international partnership and grateful for the support of Minister Mona Neubaur, Minister Nathanael Liminski, and Mayor Bürgermeisterin Clara Gerlach of Düsseldorf.
Dr. Maryna Baydyuk, President and CEO of United Help Ukraine, also attended the event to thank the Düsseldorf community, the City of Düsseldorf, supporters, and volunteers for their continued support of Ukraine and Ukrainian children.
The symbolic loading of school furniture was a powerful reminder that every desk and chair delivered to Ukraine helps restore a sense of normalcy, dignity, and hope for children whose education has been disrupted by war.
Every empty seat in a classroom tells a story — of a child forced to leave home, a school damaged by war, or a bomb shelter transformed into a classroom.
Together, we can help Ukrainian children learn, dream, and build their future in safety.
Thank you to everyone who made this partnership and this important action possible!
