Providing protection for the Shlykov Family

Our story begins in 2002, when Keith and I decided we wanted to grow our family. We connected with an organization called Reaching Arms International and began the adoption process that led us to Ukraine. Igor was our first connection upon our arrival to the beautiful country of Ukraine, Igor was our guide, our confidante, our adoption advisor, and became our lifelong friend, along with his family. Over the last 20 years we have enjoyed getting to know Igor and his family and they have gotten to know ours, including trips to Ukraine and Minnesota for each family. Our relationship and love for each other has grown over the years and we are a family, bonded by love with the adoption of our son Sam, which we are forever grateful.

 

Upon the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Igor and his family live in Kyiv, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine means they no longer can work. Instead of hearing children's laughter they are hearing air raid sirens and explosions from missiles. Igor, Natasha (Igor’s wife), and Vova (11 year old son) have fled Kyiv and are staying in a small town 75 mi outside of Kyiv. Natasha and Vova need to leave Ukraine for safety reasons, as have thousands of Ukrainians. Igor cannot leave Ukraine, as he is needed to help in the fight to repel Russian troops. Natasha is so scared to leave behind family and go someplace that is unknown and live with strangers. Keith has been researching, calling politicians, friends, neighbors - anyone who could possibly give assistance in securing Natasha and Vova's safety. We can no longer wait for the world to solve this crisis! Keith will be traveling to Poland on March 26th to meet Natasha and Vova to escort them to Switzerland. God has blessed us with loving and caring friends who are offering up their home in Switzerland to provide shelter for Natasha and Vova. As they get settled in Switzerland they will need emotional and financial support as husband and father, Igor, stays behind and faces the unknown of the war in Ukraine.

 

As parents, we just can’t wrap our brains around what is happening, such senseless devastation and loss of life. We are asking you to please help with financially supporting our Ukrainian family who has lost everything. All proceeds will go directly to this family for their support and to help them rebuild their lives. We understand not everyone is able give a monetary donation, so adding Igor, Natasha and Vova to your prayers and passing along this request to your family and friends will be a gift! They have given their time and love to assist so many families like us with the adoption of beautiful children. We feel in our hearts we are called to support and protect our Ukrainian family.

 

Our hearts are breaking for this family and so many others like them.

 

God bless you, and please keep this family as they settle in Switzerland and Keith in his travels in your prayers.