Help Keep Alisa & Danya in the School That Feels Like Home

A Ukrainian family needs your help to stay in the school that changed their lives.

Three years ago, Galina fled the war in Ukraine with her two children, Alisa and Danya. They arrived in Forest Row seeking peace, safety, and a chance to rebuild their lives.

They found all of that—and more—at the Michael Hall Steiner School.

Thanks to the kindness of the school community, Alisa and Danya have been able to attend through a full fee waiver. This school has become more than just a place of learning—it’s been a sanctuary, a community, and a place of healing.

Alisa and Danya are thriving.

They have formed strong, loving friendships and are fully embedded in the life of the school. They feel deeply at home here—emotionally and socially. Teachers and families alike have embraced them, and they are truly held by this community.

Their mum, Galina, gives back in every way she can. She shares her time and talent as a photographer, often capturing school events and supporting the community through her creative work.

But now, the financial support that made this all possible is coming to an end.

Starting this autumn term, Galina will no longer receive the fee waiver. Without it, she won’t be able to keep her children in the school that has been their safe haven.

We are trying to raise £9,000 to support their school fees term by term, beginning after the summer holidays.

Why it matters:

• This education gives Alisa and Danya emotional stability and a true sense of belonging.

• Leaving would mean losing a nurturing environment where they are safe, supported, and flourishing.

• Galina is doing everything she can to support her family here in the UK. Her husband was not allowed to leave Ukraine due to martial law, and Galina—who is always so kind, smiling, and positive—has had to manage life, work, and schooling on her own in a new country, with a new language, all while holding her children and worrying about family and friends back home.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps protect this continuity and care for a family who has already faced so much.

Please give if you can—and share with others who may be moved to help.

With heartfelt thanks,

Friends of Galina, Alisa & Danya