Balakliyska community: about the history of the region, occupation, and revival of life

Balakliya is a historical city founded by Ukrainian Cossacks in 1663. Residents sold their own handicrafts and products at a marketplace with rows of brick shops in the city center. At the beginning of the 19th century, the town became a powerful trading center. Large-scale, noisy fairs were organized here five times a year, bringing together merchants from Poland, Germany, Wallachia, and the Caucasus.
The modern Balakliyska community lived and developed peacefully. Cement, slate, gasoline, wood, etc. were produced here. Until everyday life was shattered by explosions and occupation. Six months seemed like an eternity - no electricity, water, or gas existed. On September 8, 2022, the first day of the community's liberation, the main pumping station of the water utility was hit by a missile. In addition, during the occupation, the enemy stole or burned the equipment of utility companies and mined a large part of the territory... The community was on the verge of a housing and communal disaster. The largest industrial enterprises stopped working. It seemed impossible to bring people back here.
But the community succeeded! People began to return home despite the significant destruction in the community. After all, it is always better at home. The city began to fill with life.
Local authorities helped rebuild housing and, with the support of partners, began to restore the work of utilities. The community is gradually regaining its lost rhythm of life.
Watch the video to find out how the community manages to overcome challenges and how it lives today
The video was created in partnership with ShoTam? and commissioned by Ukraine Crisis Media Center under the USAID DOBRE Program. The series of videos explains how communities can make a living and take advantage of all opportunities.