Help Alla and Vitaliy Survive Winter in Ukraine

“I’m totally scared.” - Alla Olkhovska, every day since February 24, 2022

It’s been almost TWO YEARS since Russia invaded Ukraine. Almost 660 days since Alla and her husband, Vitaliy’s world in Kharkiv, Ukraine, was ripped open and terror set in. Only 40 miles from the Russian border, their days are filled with air raids and blackouts. Explosions that rock their house regularly. And winter is here. Again.

Who I am

My name is Mia Broder. When Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022 I was horrified like most of the world. I felt powerless and didn’t know how I could help. Then I met Alla and I knew I could make a difference in at least one family.

How I Know Alla & Vitaliy Olkhovskie

I met Alla Olkhovska over 100 days into the war through my mother, Lyndy Broder, who has been an international gardening friends with Alla for years. Her family has no income due to the war. She sells seeds from her beautiful garden at her Granny’s house in the center of Kharkiv. The day I met her, she was selling commemorative Ukrainian stamps picturing the brave Ukrainian soldier at Snake Island. I felt a connection and knew I had to find a way to help.

Why I’m Raising Money

I am raising money to help Alla and her loved ones (her husband, Vitaliy, her 89-year-old Granny, and her mother-in-law) survive their second winter. With Russia's constant attacks, house repairs are frequently needed. Fuel is required for their generator to heat their homes and food preparation. Blackouts are routine and affect more than electricity, but the water supply as well. Not to mention the recent Russian hackers, who disrupt everything that matters. I am also raising funds for other critical life essentials, including food and medicine. All healthcare in Ukraine is out-of-pocket and specific medicines can be hard to find. Life is fragile, and survival is all that matters now.

Why Didn’t They Leave?

Due to the severe Covid infection at the beginning of the war, Vitaliy was too sick to travel. Besides Granny would never leave her home and Alla would never leave Granny. So they stayed and now it is far too late to leave.

Life or Death

Winter is here. In a way, Alla knows what to expect having survived last year in the war zone. And that is terrifying, but the war is getting worse. Desperation is setting in. Everything is life or death in Ukraine.

From You to Alla

Once you donate to GoFundMe the funds are on hold till your financial institution releases them. Then they go into my bank account. I use paypal to send the funds to Alla. I pay all fees that may pop up along the journey. So you can be confident that Alla receives 100% of all donations.

Why This Matters?

What is so special about this fundraiser is the direct impact to a specific family whose situation is dire. Your contribution directly helps someone live, and that matters.

If you can help, please consider donating below.

Other ways you can help:

• Support my website with Alla’s Photography of her Kharkiv Garden and Artwork inspired by her photography

Please email me for more info! Thank you so much for your support!!!

I can't do this alone.