The Zav Family leaves Ukraine

A message from Christie / sponsor

I heard about the war in Ukraine and wanted to do something, but I didn't know how to help. Then I discovered the Uniting for Ukraine program, which allows Ukrainian families to temporarily live in the US - if they have a sponsor to support them over the next 2 years. That seemed like a great way to help, so I started looking for "my" sponsee.

After messaging ~50 people over 6 weeks, I met Yurii. He proved himself over and over to be wise, positive even in challenging circumstances, humble, resourceful, full of character and integrity, the exact kind of person I had been looking for. When I discovered that we were birthday twins (different years but same month and day!), it was even more confirmation!

I will continue to help him and his family, and I'd love if you helped too! With the cost of living these days, I know that not everyone is in a position to give, but if you are, we would appreciate your support. I'm hoping to cover 3 months of daily living expenses with this fundraiser! If giving is not an option now, please send thoughts, prayers, and good vibes for this sweet family and/or share this link on social media.

If you'd like to contribute and Venmo is easier, go ahead and venmo me @ChristieDizzia and I will forward it on.

A message from Yurii / sponsee

We arrived in Jacksonville, FL about 2 weeks ago. Our thoughts so far:

We have a Ukrainian proverb: we will not sit on your neck. Ukrainians are not used to asking for help; we do everything on our own or go without. If it's hard for me, it's hard for someone else, and I don't want to cause you any trouble or be an inconvenience.

I've seen that Americans go above and beyond to be helpful. Honestly, in the beginning, I found it suspicious. I had low expectations when I first started interacting with Christie this summer. I'm not a lucky person and I like to prepare for the worst. We were internet strangers(?), internet friends(?) and essentially, I was asking someone to do this huge favor (sponsor my family) with no monetary compensation! In fact, this would cost her (time and money)! And yet, she did it! This is not the Ukrainian way.

Although I don't fully understand it yet, I like this new reality where people are determined to help. It is awkward to do it, but I am putting myself out there: asking for help, graciously accepting whatever you choose to give, and promising to pay it forward when I am able.

We are so grateful for any support you can provide, for giving us hope for a peaceful future, and welcoming us to America!