A 2 YEAR OLD UKRAINIAN CHILD NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

Hi, my name is Danya, I was born in Ukraine and am now living in Melbourne for the past 17 years and I am an Australian Citizen.

I am fundraising on behalf of two very deserving people suffering from the current war in Ukraine. I am not only using this platform for fundraising, but I am also here to share the story of an incredible frontline soldier who, days ago, was killed fighting for the freedom of his country. That soldier was my Dad, Andreiy Bondarenko (pictured below). He was not only a determined soldier, he was a loving father to both myself and my almost 2-year-old half-sister Amina. Below are images 1 day before he was tragically taken from us.

Pictured below is Andriey receiving a blessing from his mother before heading to war and another photo alongside his father. The painted picture in the background is one of the artworks he painted.

Andreiy had been risking his life day-in and day-out for 82 days since this totally senseless war broke out in February. He will forever be remembered as a Hero and a Dad that sacrificed his life for his family and his country. Not only was his life dedicated to protecting his country he was also a very talented artist /sculpturist who was well recognised for his talent both in Ukraine and abroad. He was mere days away from being called back to illustrate for the Ukrainian Army Divisions.

Pictured below are some of Andreiys artwork. (drawings/paintings and scupltures)

On May 15th 2022, near Avdiivka Ukraine, an illegal phosphate bomb was launched, and it was this bomb that took my dad's life instantly.

Below is a photo of my dad's wife (Vika) and daughter (Amina) at the train station on the day they fled Ukraine after my Dad begged them to leave in order for them to be safe. Little did they know that would be the last day they saw him. They are currently in Switzerland, temporarily living on a farm generously offered by a kind-hearted stranger.

Andreiy and Amina

The funds will be used for Vika and Amina to allow them to be able to recommence a new life in a new country. Every cent will go towards repatriation; living expenses and finding a way to survive. Vika is a qualified hairdresser and to work will need to place Amina into paid care to provide for her and rebuild their lives. War widows from Ukraine receive financial compensation upon providing certain documentation. However when there is no body, the documentation is not given and the widows are left to fend financially for themselves. This is the case for Vika and a large part of my motivation to seek help. I need to do what I can to support them - and this forms part of that objective.

I have added photos in memory of my father, his talent and his legacy and family. 

Below is a photo of myself with my Dad in Ukraine back in 2011 teaching me how to paint.

At the age of 1, I was already admiring his artwork with my mum beside me.

I thank you all for your consideration and any generosity you can spare.

And please forward this to as many people as possible to enable us all collectively to make a difference to the future of this young mother and daughter.

I will gladly supply updates on their progress to all donors that are happy to receive such.

Danya