Four Major Retail Chains Join Ukraine's 'Winter Support' Aid Program.

Expanded Retail Access for Aid Recipients

According to TSN.ua: Ukraine's 'Winter Support' financial aid program has significantly increased its reach by adding four major retail chains and nearly 1,650 new stores nationwide. The newly participating retailers—ATB, Tavria V, Dyvotsin, and LotOK—allow Ukrainians to spend their allocated 1,000 hryvnias at a much wider network of outlets. This program is a key government initiative to provide direct financial assistance to citizens.

The full list of participating stores where the funds can be used now includes:

• Auchan
• SPAR
• VARUS
• Torba
• Sim23
• Blyzenko
• NOVUS
• LIGA PRIM
• Silpo
• Fora
• THRASH! TRASH!
• Fozzy

Recipients must spend any unused portion of their aid by June 30, 2026, giving them ample time to plan their purchases.

Program Impact and Current Status

To date, over 17.8 million Ukrainians have received the 'Winter Thousand' payment, including 3.5 million children. More than 11.6 billion hryvnias have already been spent through the program. However, new applications for the 1,000-hryvnia payment are no longer being accepted, marking the end of the enrollment phase for this round of aid.

The expansion of the 'Winter Support' program reflects the government's effort to enhance the accessibility of financial aid for the population amid ongoing economic challenges.

Bringing new retailers into the program is also expected to stimulate commerce in regions affected by the crisis. It remains a vital instrument of social support, particularly for vulnerable groups who are most in need of financial assistance.