Ukrainian community in Cluj-Napoca opens playground as a symbol of gratitude to Romania
- Mariia Koshkina
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 25
After months of hard work, volunteering, and community effort, the Ukrainian community in Cluj has officially opened a renovated children’s playground in Florești. This is more than just a play area - it is a heartfelt thank-you to the Romanian people for their kindness, hospitality, and support since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine.
Since 2022, Romania has welcomed thousands of Ukrainian refugees, offering them shelter and a sense of safety. Many chose Cluj - a beautiful mountain city close to the Ukrainian border - as their new home. Over time, the desire to give something back to the local community grew stronger, leading to the idea of restoring a public playground in Florești.
“We didn’t expect support from big organizations. This playground was made possible thanks to ordinary Ukrainians temporarily living in Cluj. It’s our way of saying thank you - from the bottom of our hearts. We wanted to show that even in a foreign country, we can create something meaningful for all children - regardless of language, origin, or nationality,”
– Nazar Tretiak, Vice President of ATUR.
The project was first announced on February 24, 2025 - a symbolic date marking the third anniversary of the war. In the months that followed, a group of Ukrainian volunteers identified a suitable location in Florești and received permission from the local housing administration to proceed. With community support, they purchased materials and developed a detailed renovation plan.
Work began in the spring: old equipment was dismantled, the area cleaned, and the first new structures installed. Volunteers handcrafted benches and repainted the swings. With the help of Romanian friends, they laid down gravel and sand and installed a brand-new trash bin to complete the space.
All work was done manually and funded entirely through donations from Ukrainian refugees in Cluj County - without the involvement of large NGOs or institutions.
The opening event was a joyful celebration, featuring ice cream, face painting, balloons, and Ukrainian music. Local Romanian friends joined the festivities, standing side by side with the Ukrainian community.
This project is more than just a local initiative: it is a symbol of unity, resilience, and mutual respect. A reminder that even in times of displacement, people can come together, contribute to their community, and make a meaningful impact - especially for the next generation
