This is the story of a family of 7. There are 3 children; Adelina and Michael (age 3), Artem (age 11), and their parents and auntie. Their family built a beautiful home in the village of Manyava. It was filled with all the things we have in our homes; furniture, beds, toys, dishes, laughter and love. They were determined to stay in their home when he war started, protecting it, and one another, no-matter what. But one day the bombing got much louder, and closer, and things started falling from the shelves… so they made the courageous decision to pack 3 suitcases (mostly filled with the kids clothes and favorite toys), kissed their husbands good bye, and began the journey to safer ground. Two of the dads had to stay behind and fight for their country, which makes things so much harder on the moms, and the kids. I can’t imagine what these parents are going through right now.

A friend of this family lives here in Westchester, and she offered to find them a small apartment to help put a roof over their heads for the time being. Many donations from the community of gently used items also came in this week. The family was in tears when they heard of the love, compassion and generosity of people who they’ve never met, going out of their way to help them.

Although we feel we have been able to help this family a little bit, picking up donated items here and there, we are only one family, and we need to reach out to the community and ask for their help. The amount of items needed to start over from scratch, especially with little ones, is truly overwhelming.

I have been asked by several people who donated items to start a ‘go fund me’ page for this family, who literally has nothing but 3 suitcases. Anything you can give will be combined with what other people can give, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of Adelina, Michael and Artem.

This money will be used for purchasing towels, pots and pans, mixing bowls, utensils, blankets, school supplies, dishes, cups, warm clothing, toiletries, groceries, medical supplies, a computer or tablet for 11 yr old (for school) and transportation money until they find jobs and can by a car.