Help a Ukrainian family on their path to new life.

Hello! We are Jonathan and Sandy Collins, fundraising for Maria (pronounced "Masha") Shtofa as she journeys through the unknowns of fleeing her war-torn country.

Maria (22 years old), her two younger teenage sisters, and her mother were able to escape their village and enter Croatia as Russian forces advanced. Her father was required to stay behind to help defend the region. Missionaries in Croatia offered to house Maria in Oregon temporarily where she is now based.

Maria recently finished her studies in performing arts as an aspiring film actress and is working to forge a path where she can start a new life away from her homeland. She will most likely end up somewhere in Europe, but wants to explore Los Angeles and New York while she is displaced in the United States.

The missionaries helping her in Oregon reached out to a friend of ours for guidance. That friend recommended Sandy and I as a source of help for her visit to LA, which we were more than happy to take on and run with.

We have helped coordinate transportation, acting classes, industry connections, and things to see and do during her week in LA. We have had the pleasure of taking her on a tour of the city, visiting the Hollywood sign and Santa Monica pier, connecting her with new people, and sharing a meal with friends.

From LA she will regroup in Oregon, pass through New York City, attempt to reunite with her family in Europe, and then try to establish a fresh start for her future.

Please join us as we partner to bring a bit of hope and help to a gentle and kind soul who has been separated from her community, home, and family due to the tensions of war in her land. All funds will go directly to Maria and her family to help with safe travels, food, lodging, and the building of a journey to new beginnings.

In an international crisis where we all feel a bit powerless to help, this is a chance to participate in real change for one refugee family. They have our heart, prayers, and support, and we are asking you to share some of yours as well. Though they have been directly impacted by tragedy, they can also be directly impacted by your generosity.

Thank you in advance. ❤️