On September 27, in Odesa, at the inclusive beach located at the 11th station of the Great Fountain, the official closing ceremony of the wellness season took place.
Since its reopening on July 1 after extensive renovations, the beach has served over 25,000 individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Notably, 12 trips were organized for 300 persons with limited mobility from Mykolaiv. As noted by Mykolaiv City Council member Yuriy Stepanyts, Odesa has been providing drinking water to Mykolaiv since the onset of the full-scale invasion and now offers people with disabilities the freedom to enjoy the sea.
Odesa Mayor Hennadiy Trukhanov emphasized the city’s ambitious plans for the development of inclusive recreation areas. He promised to create a specialized base for veterans to engage in sea rowing.
«Currently, we are implementing three barrier-free routes in Odesa in collaboration with the Barrier-Free Council and my advisor on accessibility, Oleksiy Morozov: “North-South” in partnership with the Ministry of Development, a tourist route through the city center, and a wellness route that combines sea, sun, adaptive sports, and community leisure,” — stated Hennadiy Trukhanov.
Throughout the day, many heartfelt words of gratitude were expressed to those who made it possible to create and maintain this special area, ensuring quality service and meaningful experiences. Deputy Mayor and veteran of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Serhiy Kotsyuba, admitted that he will miss the weekly meetings at the beach with his comrades and is eagerly awaiting the next season.
In the coming days, conservation measures will be conducted to preserve the equipment and prepare for the new wellness season.