Charitable foundation from Andriy Matyukha and Croatian philanthropists have united to support Ukraine

Since the start of the full-scale war, Croatia has become a true stronghold for Ukrainians. An active community quickly emerged, supporting fellow citizens and staying connected to home.

Since the start of the full-scale war, Croatia has become a true stronghold for Ukrainians. An active community quickly emerged, supporting fellow citizens and staying connected to home.

The Center for Ukrainians in Zagreb

In April 2022, Foundation helped establish a center for Ukrainians in the Croatian capital. The center has become a pillar of support for those forced to leave their homes, offering opportunities for education, cultural participation, or simply connecting with people who understand their experiences.

Initially, the center offered free Croatian and English language classes. Later, the program expanded to include art therapy, sports activities, creative clubs, and lessons in Ukrainian language, mathematics, and reading for children.

The center’s cultural program gradually became the heart of the community. In December 2023, it hosted its first St. Nicholas Day celebration, with gifts from Andriy Matyukha. Over 150 children and their families attended. Since then, the event has become an annual tradition

In May 2024, the NGO Chervona Kalyna, supported by Foundation, organized a sports and cultural festival for International Workers’ Day, attracting more than 1,000 Ukrainians and Croatians. Throughout the year, the center also hosted pottery workshops, Christmas events, and Ukrainian cultural festivals.

Every year, the center celebrates Ukrainian Language Day, Vyshyvanka Day, and themed summer events, helping Ukrainians maintain a connection to their cultural traditions.

Croatian charitable organization Dobro Dobrim supports Ukraine

The humanitarian organization Dobro Dobrim (DoDo) was founded in 2021 to help earthquake victims and, by 2022, shifted its focus to ongoing support for Ukraine.

After the Kakhovka dam destruction, the team quickly organized a shipment of over 11 tons of aid: food, clothing, medicines, hygiene products, baby formula, strollers, mattresses, and even pet food. The initiative brought together Chervona Kalyna, Dobro Dobrim, Andriy Matyukha, and Ukrainian displaced persons.

Throughout 2024-2025, additional shipments of humanitarian aid were sent to Ukraine — from food and medicines to military equipment. The initiative involved Favbet Foundation, its president Andriy Matyukha, Dobro Dobrim, Croatian companies Kefo d.o.o., Lochman & Rauscher, Medical Intertrade HEP, and the Government of Croatia.

During the 34th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence in Zagreb, the Ukrainian community and its partners organized a charity collection. The shipment to Ukraine included medicines, food, toys, hospital equipment, furniture, clothing, and bicycles.

Favbet Foundation and Andriy Matyukha on sustainability and development

The collaboration between volunteers, the community, and the Foundation has shown that joint efforts produce real results.

“Every shipment is not just boxes — it’s real support for those on the frontlines or in frontline cities. We aim to make aid systematic and sustainable,” — says Andriy Matyukha.

The Foundation also plans to continue supporting projects in education and sports.