My colleague’s kitchen in Kyiv looked cozy in the photo as she prepared food by candlelight on a gas stove. Candles and other portable light sources are literally the bright spots of the evening as darkness descends after drone and air strikes.

Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainians’ resilience has been tested more severely this winter than at any other point during the war. Robot and drone attacks have been more intense than in previous winters. Power and heating shortages have at times forced schools and other public services to close their doors.

Until last year, the situation during the coldest time of the year was kept at a tolerable level by repairing damage around the clock. Now, repair work is constantly lagging behind as new areas requiring repair are constantly emerging. Twelve-hour power cuts are common throughout Ukraine and often occur during the darkest hours of the day.

In January, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged all residents who were able to do so to temporarily leave the city. More than half a million people heeded his call and left. Many moved in with relatives or friends, including our colleagues in Ukraine.

Disrupting everyday life is Russia’s strategy, and Ukrainians are clinging to their daily routines at all costs. This is also where our support is most needed – especially since peace does not seem to be just around the corner.

During four years of war, our work in the education sector has reached over 117,000 Ukrainians. The aid has included winter equipment and school supplies, as well as the repair and renovation of 132 civil defense shelters to enable face-to-face teaching. An independent evaluation examined our programs focusing on psychosocial support. In the evaluation, 83 percent of parents reported that their children’s social skills had improved, and nearly three out of four said that their children’s stress and anxiety had decreased.

The desire and ability to persevere and look ahead despite the cold and darkness is a flame that we must keep alive.