Ukrainians have now lived through more than three and a half years of war. Even as we trust in God’s goodness and grace, the violence, loss, and anxiety affect everyone. Our staff daily encounter war-related problems and needs. But thanks to your giving to the war relief fund, we can respond promptly and generously.
Our Families in Europe
We continue to care for those who remained in Europe after evacuating. Recently the war relief fund helped Andriy and Oksana visit six families and one individual in the Netherlands. They’re in four locations now. They’re all doing well, and most of the teens and adults have jobs; the Dutch government has good programs for refugees. They were very encouraged to see friends from Last Bell!
Humanitarian Needs
Our community of orphans includes many grieving widows and soldiers’ families. Some of your gifts support them, whether for a visit over coffee or an invitation to family camp. Several military wives, including one widow, were encouraged by that week away from the troubles of war.
Helping Chaplains
Our staff often help military chaplains they know. In the past year, your gifts repaired a car that a chaplain drives to the front lines. Another received funds to renovate his home, which was damaged in an explosion. Yet another requested a shotgun for protection from drones, but because Last Bell doesn’t fund weapons, we covered some classes he needed to take.
Helping Soldiers
We receive many requests from soldiers; we prioritize those from orphans.
Your generosity meets a wide range of soldiers’ needs: from footwear and thermal underwear to car repairs, laptops, and flashlights. You’ve provided vital equipment like power banks, batteries, and even one Starlink terminal. On Women’s Day, our staff gave gifts to the enlisted women who serve at Zhytomyr’s shooting range.
Of course, sending help is no guarantee a soldier will come home safely.
Artyom, who was part of Last Bell fifteen years ago, contacted us when he was deployed for the second time. Director Andriy sent him boots, a uniform, and other supplies. Artyom expressed a lot of gratitude for these gifts. But not long ago, he stopped responding to messages. It’s likely he was killed in action.
We appreciate your prayers for soldiers’ safety, for their spiritual lives, and for our staff as they continue to help despite these losses.
Zhenya Helping Others at the Front Lines
In February, we wrote about Zhenya, a former orphan. He’d returned from the front lines wounded physically and in spirit. Director Andriy began visiting him as he recovered. In spite of continued pain from his injuries, he’s now delivering supplies to fellow soldiers at the front lines.
You’ve provided repairs for the minivans he drives, which often break down. We’ve also sent gifts for soldiers with Zhenya.
When Director Marguerite was in Zhytomyr, she sat down to talk with Zhenya at the old Day Center. He described – without too much graphic detail – his experiences transporting wounded or fallen soldiers. He wanted Americans to know the Ukrainian military is “fearless,” and won’t stop defending their country. Our staff’s spiritual and emotional support is deeply meaningful, giving Zhenya and other orphaned soldiers a sense of family at home.
We’re so grateful for all of you who keep your compassion alight for Ukraine. Thank you for caring and continuing to reach out and help!