Oleksandr and Anya, along with their 6-year-old son, Yehor, are coming to Columbus, Indiana to escape the war in their beloved Ukraine. To say they have been through hell and back is an understatement! I met this family on a volunteer website that was based in Europe. We quickly became friends texting daily and weekly video chats with families on both sides of the ocean.

Oleksandr worked for the US Embassy in Kyiv, and Anya, a former police officer. Several years earlier, they were forced to leave their home due to the aggression of Russia. They settled in Kyiv 8 years ago. They rebuilt their lives, welcomed their son into the world, and once again, Russia forced them from home. However, this time, their home was destroyed along with all of their earthly possessions. Once again, they must start all over!

The family is currently at a Refugee Center in Romania, and are safe. Yehor is learning English and according to his parents, he is trying very hard! Yehor told me, through translation, he was happy to come to America because "everybody in America has a dog!" This sweet child, through everything, is most excited about having a dog. He is focused on the happy, as only a child can in this situation!

We want to help in the best and most beneficial way that we can. This is why we are raising funds to ease the financial burden as they are forced to leave behind their belongings, families, home, community, country, jobs, and lives.

The funds will be used to help this family get settled in Indiana. The most significant needs are clothing, shoes, vehicle, and health insurance. The funds from this campaign will be used for those items while the family awaits a work permit. It is estimated that the work permit may take up to 9 months to receive.

After the trauma each of them has endured, we would like very much to ease some of their burden with this campaign.

The family is excited to come to the US and have asked about schools, churches, community programs, etc. They want to be involved in the community as much as possible. According to Anya, this is her way of showing respect and thanks to the community.

It is my hope that with your help, we can support the family through this difficult time. No amount is too small; every dollar will help to ease their suffering and provide them with the tools they need for a better future.

Thank you!