When Mrs. Yulia, her husband, and their three-year-old daughter arrived in the United States, they carried little more than hope and the courage to start anew. Their journey as Ukrainian asylees seeking safety and stability was fraught with uncertainty, but their lives took a significant turn for the better through the dedicated efforts of our Ukrainian team, volunteers, and the wider community.

It began with a warm welcome. Our Case Manager personally met Mrs. Yulia, her husband, and their young child at the airport, ensuring their first moments in the new country were met with care and reassurance. Recognizing their immediate needs, our team quickly arranged temporary housing, helping them settle into a safe space where they could begin to rebuild their lives.

Our support did not stop there. We helped Mrs. Yulia navigate the complexities of the government system—applying for public benefits, securing work authorization, and registering with the local food bank to ensure access to essentials. We introduced her to community centers and local churches, creating a support network that would become an anchor during their transition.

As the family settled in, our staff coordinated donations from generous community volunteers to furnish their new permanent home, providing essential items to create a welcoming environment. Thanks to our collaboration with Hope Within Ministries, Mrs. Yulia’s child, Weronika, received critical medical tests and treatment entirely free of charge.

Her path to independence was further strengthened through our special employment program for refugees. Our Ukrainian team provided job search assistance, interview coaching, and workplace orientation. Additionally, we offered customized English lessons to help Mrs. Yulia prepare for employment in her field of expertise.

She brought with her a strong professional background, holding a bachelor’s degree in apparel technology and design from Kiev Technology and Design College and over seven years of experience in the field. Our team leveraged this expertise to help her secure a job at WS Display, a manufacturing company, where she started with a competitive salary of $19.00 per hour. The opportunity not only aligned with her qualifications but also provided a stable foundation for her family’s future.

Recognizing the importance of childcare, our team helped her secure a temporary Ukrainian elderly babysitter through carefully allocated funds, giving her time to enroll her child in affordable daycare. Our community partners-in-mission also stepped in to teach her how to drive, empowering her with greater independence. These committed volunteers worked closely with Mrs. Yulia to teach essential driving skills—maneuvering, road safety, and traffic regulations—effectively preparing her for the driver’s test. This support was instrumental in helping her achieve that milestone. After passing, she began saving money to purchase a used car to meet her family’s transportation needs.

Our holistic approach extended beyond employment. We also provided cultural orientation, legal guidance, and translation services, ensuring she felt confident navigating her new environment.

This story highlights the extraordinary collaboration between our staff, volunteers, and community organizations. Our collective efforts helped Mrs. Yulia, her husband, and their young daughter not only adjust to life in the United States but thrive as valued members of society. Their resilience, combined with our unwavering support, exemplifies the power of community in transforming lives.

Today, Mrs. Yulia is a contributing member of her new community, supporting its economy and enriching its diverse culture. Her journey is a testament to what is possible when compassion and coordinated effort come together to uplift those in need.