Help the Kuznietsov Family Stay in Menomonie

Hello, this is Lynn and Paul Schwartz. On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. The Kuznietsov family fled their village home in the Zaporizhia region of Ukraine. The region where they lived is now occupied by the Russian military. The family of Yuliia, Khurmat, Nikita, and Kiril first stayed in Poland. In 2023, we sponsored the family through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service's United for Ukraine program. This program is now closed to new applicants. The family's status in the United States is now in jeopardy. A similar program for Venezuelans was recently revoked, and advocacy agencies for Ukrainians that fled the conflict believe that this will also happen to the Ukrainian people in the United States under the United for Ukraine program. If that happens, they will be subject to immediate deportation. The family loves it here in the United States and in Menomonie and would love to stay in Menomonie.

In many ways, they are a classic American success story. Khurmat and Yuliia both legally work full-time in the community, Kiril is getting good grades at Menomonie High School (just got honor roll!), and Nikita is working two jobs and studying computer programming at Chippewa Valley Technical College. It is amazing how well their English has improved in such a short time. The battle lines in the war in Ukraine have barely budged in over a year. If the war ends with the existing lines becoming the new border, their home will be in Russia. Understandably, they do not want to become Russian citizens and are very concerned for their safety.

Here's where you can help. We have contacted immigration lawyers that have experience and success in asylum cases. If their case is successful, the Kuznietsov family will be on the path to citizenship and achieving their dream of becoming United States citizens. We are asking for your financial support for this cause for lawyer fees for this family. Any donation amount would be greatly appreciated. Sometimes, giving a donation can seem like some abstract exercise. Not here. In this case, many of you know the family. Maybe Khurmat fixed your roof. Maybe Yuliia cleaned your home. Perhaps you saw them buying vegetables at the Menomonie Farmer's Market. They are part of this community. We are so grateful to live in a kind and generous community. Please consider this cause.

Thank you for continuing to welcome the Kuznietsov family to our community, and for your support.

Lynn and Paul Schwartz