News

Penza Oblast has become the first region in Russia to implement a social rehabilitation program for veterans of the special military operation who have sustained disabilities due to combat injuries. The initiative to create conditions for the self-realization of returning soldiers is being carried out under the directive of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The project is being implemented with the support of Federation Council Chairwoman Valentina Matviyenko and Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova, utilizing the facilities of the "Novyye Berega" art estate. This location offers an accessible environment, necessary equipment, and proven experience in implementing specialized rehabilitation programs for people with disabilities.
On the project's launch day, the Children's Ombudsman and the Governor of Penza Oblast met with the first 10 participants. Representatives of regional authorities and law enforcement agencies also attended to show their support for the veterans.
"For all of us, our foundation is family: wives, husbands, children. Participants of the special military operation, especially those who sustained injuries and disabilities, need special support and care from their closest ones. At the request of families, we have organized comprehensive social, domestic, and psychological rehabilitation for SVO participants who sustained serious injuries. It will take place at the inclusive 'Novyye Berega' estate, run by the 'Kvartal Lui' charity organization which is dear to me," said Maria Lvova-Belova.
The 30-day program includes psychological, physical, sports, occupational, and socio-cultural rehabilitation. The project team includes a rehabilitation specialist, clinical psychologist, physical therapy instructors, and a career guidance counselor.
The program also features an educational course on entrepreneurship fundamentals and business project development, enabling veterans to pursue social contracts for business startups.
"Our primary goal is comprehensive psychological and medical rehabilitation, and most importantly - social rehabilitation. God willing, may each person succeed in starting their own small business that gives life meaning. We want every one of you to realize upon completing the course that life is just beginning, it can be rich and interesting," emphasized Oleg Melnichenko.
During his visit to the art estate, the regional governor inspected the gym, educational center, and rehabilitation facilities.
"We hope that by working with the first group of participants here, we will identify the most effective approaches for rehabilitation. We will understand what they truly need, as we might not fully comprehend everything yet. In a month, we will likely gain experience that can be applied to subsequent groups," summarized Oleg Melnichenko.