Yura Holub, a Ukrainian student

Hi. My name is Heidi Hiatt from San Pedro, CA, and I am trying to raise money for Yura, a Ukrainian student who can't go home because of the war in Ukraine. In September 2021, my daughter and I were lucky enough to become the host family of two great teenage boys, Saji (from Palestine) and Yura (from Kyiv, Ukraine). Saji will be heading home soon, but Yura can’t go home. War broke out in Ukraine on February 24 of this year, and Yura’s life has been turned upside down again. Because of the Russian invasion, he is not able to return to his family and country. His plan before the war was to attend university in Ukraine, where tuition is free. Now he will stay here and start at El Camino College in the fall. Yura is working through the process to remain (and attend school and work) in the United States, but we hear it can take upwards of a year to be approved.

While Yura is a part of our family, staying beyond the school year was not part of his plan or ours. As school is free for him back home, he has not saved for college. The program that brought him here is only for high school students. So, as of this August, he no longer has the backup of a hosting agency, and his medical insurance expires. His family at home understandably cannot help as they are living through the uncertainty of war. We are raising money to help Yura with insurance, transportation, clothing, glasses, community college tuition and books, and other living expenses. In addition, we would also like to be able to provide some support to his family back home if possible.

If you have had the pleasure of meeting Yura, you will know that he is funny, outgoing, caring, and the most optimistic person you will ever meet. He is also a great big brother to Hattie and Saji. We have had a great year together. I am happy he can continue to stay with us, but I am unable to cover all of his expenses on my own. It is difficult for us to ask for help, but I am asking. If you can, please help me provide Yura with the things he needs. Thank you!