This past year, the world witnessed the devastating impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war has since resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties to date, and forced millions of civilians to live without access to food, water, and flee their homes.

Today, it is estimated that over 8-million Ukrainians have fled to neighboring countries, launching Europe into the largest refugee crisis they have seen since the Second World War. More than 300 children, staff, and volunteers from our partner homes found themselves among the displaced.

Located in the city of Mariupol, Pilgrim Republic Safe House for Children is our longest partner project. Under the leadership of Pastor Gennadiy, this project has been involved in the rescue of thousands of children off the streets, and has built the largest domestic adoption coalition in Ukraine.

This ministry was particularly hit hard during the siege of Mariupol. Their facility was completely destroyed by shelling, and countless civilian lives were lost. After some strategic planning and coordination, we were able to assist in securing all of the documents needed to grant the children access into Germany, where they have been living in a temporary home for the past year.

The staff and children at Pilgrim Republic faced many unforeseen challenges during their time in Germany. Despite their best efforts to resettle, it became evident the children would thrive best in their home country.

Located in the city of Mariupol, Pilgrim Republic Safe House for Children is our longest partner project. Under the leadership of Pastor Gennadiy, this project has been involved in the rescue of thousands of children off the streets, and has built the largest domestic adoption coalition in Ukraine.

Our team at Serving Orphans Worldwide has been working with Pastor Gennadiy’s team for the past eight months to find a safe and well-equipped location to resettle their ministry. We are excited to share that we have secured a property in the mountains of Western Ukraine. Despite missile attacks still devastating many parts of the country, there has never been an attack where this property is located. With plenty of space for the children to roam and play, this new home has all the amenities to raise them in a healthy environment. The home is close to schools and healthcare providers. There is a train station nearby, allowing staff to easily travel for food and other necessary items. A beautiful stream runs through the property and flows into a river – a true oasis in the midst of war. Furthermore, this property is strategically located so the children and staff can evacuate to a neighboring country if necessary.

This property will serve as a safe and permanent resettlement option for the children. Furthermore, it will offer refuge and a place to host summer camps for several of our other Ukrainian partner homes in the months and years ahead. In fact, this month, they hosted their first summer camp on the property for the children and others who have been impacted by the war.

The children from Pilgrim Republic will finally make their way back home.

SUPPORT OUR UKRAINIAN CHILDREN’S HOMES

Serving Orphans Worldwide has committed to providing monthly support to our Ukrainian partner projects in the midst of war and crisis. Thanks to a group of special supporters, 100% of your donation will go directly to the field and not to any administrative costs.