The embankment of the Sluch River in Sarny is a unique place that could become the true green heart of the city. However, today this territory is neglected: there is no improvement, benches or lighting, there are dangerous trees, dead wood, swampy areas and hazardous zones. In the dark hours, the territory is dangerous, and in the light hours - uncomfortable and inaccessible for elderly people, families and those who simply want to walk or restore their strength by the river.
The project idea was born from a simple observation - each of us has at least once walked past the Sluch River and thought: 'It could be better here.' Once the shore was a place of meetings and walks, and now it looks more like a forgotten part of the city.
We - local activists, representatives of several public organizations - decided not to wait for changes from above, but to act together. We met at several joint cleanups, then conducted a survey among residents - and saw how many people actually dream of having a space for health and recreation near their home.
Thus the idea of 'Health Path' was born - a symbolic trail that begins with joint action and leads us to a better urban space. We joined forces so that the shore would again become a place of strength - clean, accessible and safe for everyone.
Public activists of the city of Sarny together with residents explored this territory, conducted SWOT analysis and mapping, surveyed 304 city residents, most of whom were women and elderly people. Almost half of them regularly visit the embankment, but all unanimously emphasized: the main needs are safety, convenient surface, lighting, accessibility and nature preservation. People want to see the embankment as a space for walks, yoga, rehabilitation, fishing, sports, meetings with friends and family leisure.
Modern cities have an urgent demand for green zones. After the pandemic and full-scale war, the need for accessible places for recreation, psychological relief and mental health restoration has increased many times over. The embankment of the Sluch River is a unique opportunity to create a quiet health path right next to home for thousands of Sarny residents.
Today the bank of the Sluch River is a territory that could become a place of strength for thousands of people, but due to garbage and lack of convenient infrastructure it stands empty. Our community knows how to act together - but we need financial support to buy materials, benches, arrange surface and information stands. We want to change this together with you - and transform the abandoned shore into a space for health, relaxation and pleasant meetings. We dream that this autumn the first residents will walk the health path.
