Over the past nearly 3 years we have helped thousands of people by providing them food, clothing, household essentials and more. We also provide comprehensive services and support to families in need, ranging from medical care to academic tutoring to mental health counseling and more. Below are the stories of two families with whom we work closely to address the critical issues they face.
Matvey:
Matvey, aged 17, lived with his sister and their mother in a 1-room dormitory apartment in Chernivtsi. The father moved out some time ago, leaving the family with no means of support. Matvey and his family have depended on government support to pay their costs of daily living: food, rent, and clothing. JRNU helps as well.
The stress of their situation caused Matvey’s mother to begin to drink daily. The children are well aware of this troubling habit, particularly because their home is so small, with barely enough space for a living area and bathroom.
Matvey needed to escape the difficult environment and was fortunate to find work (both fulltime and part-time jobs) and a place to live. He is also continuing his studies online at Kharkov University to become an investigator. While just a young man, at 17, Matvey is determined to support himself and also assist his family.
Anya:
Anya Pavlova, 11 years old, lives with her mother in Chernivtsi. Just prior to the war, her father moved to Israel, leaving his family behind. He provides no financial support and does not stay in touch with Anya. The family lacks funds to cover daily living, and often can’t afford food or medicine. The home they occupy is very small with no personal space for Anya. The challenging circumstances have taken a toll on her already fragile mental health.
Anya began school at the age of 8, but did not complete second grade due to frequent absences and her inability to read or write. Her mother was unable to ensure her participation in the online classes, and thus Anya was not able to return to school for 3rd grade. We provide Anya one-on-one tutoring so she will be able to return to school in the fall.
It has been a privilege to get to know these families who have endured so much and to help them navigate the many challenges they face. We will continue our efforts with them and the many others throughout Ukraine who are in desperate need of assistance. Together we save lives and restore hope.
