On March 05-06, 2024, the WFP Monitoring Unit with the assistance of Food Security and Livelihoods Cluster conducted a comprehensive field mission in Kharkivska and Donetska oblasts, monitoring WFP implementing partners and assessing the food security situation. 

The mission revealed that, despite coping strategies relying on kitchen gardens and humanitarian aid, stability in the monitored areas is precarious. Coordination challenges persist among cluster partners, necessitating additional resources and mapping efforts. 

The Lyman community faces a pressing need for building materials due to extensive house damage, while agricultural challenges include limited cattle, unsafe pastures, and the need for safe feeding practices. Cash assistance is crucial for settlements with market access, and the use of Starlink is essential for stable communication in areas with unstable mobile coverage. Institutional feeding requires flexibility and collaboration, and additional support for online education is needed in Donetska oblast. 

The mission emphasized the interconnectedness of agricultural livelihoods, the persistent threat of landmines, and the importance of adaptable, collaborative humanitarian responses to ensure the well-being of affected populations.