Victory Lights: Mariupol residents make trench candles for our defenders

With the onset of cold weather, every trench candle on the front line takes on special significance. Each light is not just a flame. For our warriors, it is light, warmth, and an opportunity to heat food and dry clothes when there is only wind and cold ground nearby.

That is why production of such candles has become one of the most important volunteer initiatives of Mariupol residents. At locations set up by Vadym Boichenko's team throughout Ukraine, Mariupol residents come together to make trench candles for the Armed Forces of Ukraine with their own hands. 

Last winter, we delivered 25,000 "Victory Lights" to our defenders. This year, the goal is even more ambitious – 30,000 candles for those who defend Ukraine.

"We are doing a very important job to make it easier for the guys from the Armed Forces of Ukraine in winter. Because this thing is priceless in a trench – it is light, it is a way to heat food, and it is a way to keep warm," says Nelya from Kyiv.

Anyone can join in making candles or help by bringing tin cans to the "I'Mariupol" centres in your city.

Requirements for tin cans are:
-high sides
-clean, washed
-no paper labels or paint
-no sharp edges (so that our volunteers do not get injured)

Together, we warm not only the hands of our soldiers, but also their hearts.
Each candle is a piece of gratitude, support and faith in Victory.