Help Angela and Her Family in Ukraine

Hi, our names are Steph and Michelle. We are fundraising for our sister Angela, her husband Maxim, and their 3 small children who were forced to flee their home in Kyiv, Ukraine during the early morning of Thursday, February 24th. As soon as they learned about the first bombings across Ukraine, they knew they had to leave and packed up in 2 hours. They did not realize that what they were packing was probably all they'll ever have from their home. They packed a week of clothes, some documents, a little money, and a few toys and coloring things for the kids. They had no clue what was about to occur and that what they took is what they have now. They may never be able to return to their home again…
 
Angela is an American citizen who has called Kyiv home for the past 10 1/2 years and has been teaching at a private Christian school. In 2012 she married Maxim, a Ukrainian computer programmer, and one of the kindest, gentlest souls we know. They are devoted Christians who are active in their church and community. In addition to their full life both working and parenting 3 kids, our rambunctious and hilarious nieces and nephew - Liliya (8), Abby (6) and David (3) - they are dedicated to helping Ukrainian children in need. In late 2021 they welcomed an orphaned teen into their home and brought him to safety with them in western Ukraine..as well as a couple they knew through Maxim's work. Angela and Maxim were also taking adoption classes and are still hoping to welcome 1-2 more Ukrainian orphaned children into their family this year.


After an eventful, uncertain, and stress-filled 85-hour wait in line at the Poland border (that's 4 days and 4 nights in a van!), the family finally successfully crossed the border into Poland early Tuesday morning! We are so thankful they made it and at the same time so sad for Kyiv and the people of Ukraine. So many others have it even worse. Angela and her family now have to start a new life with very little. They had to leave behind many precious family members and friends and belongings. So many Ukrainians need support right now. Please give what you can, where you can. Please also contact your local and state representatives; put pressure on them to support Ukraine through sanctions against Russia, humanitarian refugee/displacement efforts, supporting the soldiers and civilians defending their land, etc. Pray for the families there. Every tiny act matters now.

Through all of this, Angela shared about the kindness of strangers in the line, folks giving out blankets, soup, tea, or sandwiches. Sharing resources and information. Jump starting each other’s cars. Seeing generosity of spirit come through in a time of crisis like this helps hearten and strengthen us all so that we can continue fighting fear & evil with love, hope, and small acts of kindness. Thank you for being part of the light in this darkness and lifting us all up. We love you!!!