Help Ukrainian refugees start a new life

We are sponsoring three generations of a family from Ukraine. They have left their hometown of Kryvyi Rih to escape the atrocities that Russian Occupation forces have brought to their doorstep. The family comprises grandma (Nadiia Zhmur), both parents (Vitalii Holovchenko and Natalia Sokolviak) and two adorable children (Dymtro Sokolviak and Marharyta Holovchenko). In Ukraine, they had everyday Ukrainian lives - going to work, paying bills and raising a family. Grandma worked in the markets, and dad was a technician for the local mining company, while mom stayed home to raise the children.

As the war raged on in the east, they watched as the brutality of war threatened their town. Hearing aircraft and missiles cruise across the sky, always praying that none were destined towards them. Finally, with the heavy fighting just a few dozen kilometers away, they planned their travel to the US.

They had a limited number of bags to fill. Their new life in the US would all be built only on what they decided to place in them. The first leg of their journey was a day-long train ride across the country to the western city of Lviv. From there, they were able to take a car ride to Poland. Then, they had a two-day wait for their one-way ticket to Los Angeles. Finally, after 12 hours in the air and over 3 hours getting through border security, they were officially welcomed into the US.

This family has been through so much. Has given up so much. And due to their circumstances could use so much. Unfortunately, due to their entry into the US, they are not yet permitted to work. However, they are not the type to ask for a hand-out, so I consider this a hand up.

As they wait for the work authorization, we prepare to start their new lives. They will need transportation, clothing, training and all the everyday items a family requires to get back on their feet. We are hoping the funds donated here will help contribute to their needs.

We sincerely appreciate all that everyone has done to help them feel welcome in their new home and ask if you can help support them on this new journey.

Here is a current map that shows their hometown of Kryvyi Rih, and how close Russian forces and bombings currently are.