KATERYNOSLAV AND SIMFEROPOL CHARITABLE SOCIETIES: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ACTIVITY О. Balukhtina

Abstract

The article aims at studying the largest charitable societies in Katerynoslav and Simferopol as an example of public care in the Ukrainian lands in the pre-Soviet period. The main directions of their activity are highlighted, common features and peculiarities are determined. Charitable institutions were established, which functioned at the expense of societies. It is proved that charitable activity was one of the factors increasing the level of social protection of the most vulnerable segments of the population in provincial cities. Interest in the topic of charity is inexhaustible, as it is associated with the study of cultural and spiritual traditions, which this phenomenon is associated with in society. Among a wide range of problematic issues, today the activities of charitable societies at the level of the regions of Ukraine are insufficiently studied. The aim of the article is to study and compare the activities of Katerynoslav and Simferopol charitable societies to improve financial situation of vulnerable groups in Katerynoslav and Tavriya provinces. The method of comparative analysis is applied. The main amount of funds came from the collection of direct donations through the organization of charity events (concerts, performances), through salary books and subscription letters. Katerynoslav Charitable Society had a much larger turnover of funds, revenues and expenditures. It is obvious that it collected more donations and was more active in entrepreneurial activity. The successful activity of Katerynoslav and Simferopol charitable societies reflected a wide range of social needs of Southern Ukrainians and was directed, first of all to financial support of vulnerable segments of the population. Over the time, help became more targeted. Attempts were made to solve the problems of social care for the infirm, professional begging and unemployment by creating shelters and working houses. Attention was paid to the main role of women in managing societies and cooperation with local authorities was monitored.