March 21 is celebrated as World Down Syndrome Day globally and in Ukraine.

In Odesa, there are over 150 individuals with Down syndrome. To raise public awareness and combat stereotypes regarding people with this condition, the Integrated Social Services Center organized a photo exhibition featuring families from Odesa that include individuals with genetic anomalies.

The Director of the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council, Olena Kytainska, welcomed the participants, wishing everyone peace, harmony, and patience.

Lidia Ostrohladova, a mother of two children with Down syndrome, expressed gratitude for the attention and assistance in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

Representatives from community organizations such as “Future Guarantee,” “Special Children,” and “Healthy Society” also participated in the event.

At the end of the meeting, representatives of the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council presented gifts to special guests.

Additionally, employees from the local social protection offices in Odesa participated in the global flash mob “Colorful Socks.” To show support for individuals with Down syndrome, they attached an odd number of colorful socks to their outer clothing as a symbol of the extra chromosome.