Ukrainian Red Cross Society Founding Day is observed in Ukraine every April 18. This day commemorates the founding of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society in 1918 during the Ukrainian War of Independence, established as an independent humanitarian organization of the Ukrainian People’s Republic. The Society's primary objectives included assisting prisoners of war and refugees, caring for orphaned children and handicapped individuals, and combating epidemics and famine. It organized hospitals, infirmaries, food kitchens, and first aid stations. After being part of the Soviet Red Cross Society until 1992, the Ukrainian Red Cross Society has since become Ukraine's leading humanitarian and charitable organization, focusing on health and care, disaster management, and the protection of human dignity. The day is celebrated to highlight the Society’s core principles, which include humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.