Welcome to Los Angeles, Illia

Illia is a 14-year-old boy. His father is fighting in the war in Ukraine, and his mother and 5-year-old brother remain nearby. After the war began, Illia escaped Kyiv in a toolshed in the back of a pickup truck. He traveled for 8 hours to Romania, where he slept in airports, had multiple transfers to other cities, and ultimately safely ended his journey in Los Angeles. He arrived with a backpack. Alone. With the only life he knew left back in Ukraine.

 

Illia is fortunate to have his Aunt and Uncle in Los Angeles, whom he is currently living with. They are wonderful people, that we know personally, and are fully supportive of Illia's needs. As much as Illia is grateful and his spirits are high, he misses home and is scared for his family.

 

The family was hoping for a happy ending where Illia would return to Kyiv and be back with his family. Unfortunately, that doesn't look like that will happen anytime soon. Illia will be in Los Angeles for the foreseeable future. Through a wonderful group effort, and a lot of determination, Illia will be starting school at Palisades Charter High School. We are hoping to make this transition as smooth as possible for him.

 

We have started this Go Fund Me page in order to support Illia and his family. Funds raised will go toward his immediate needs - clothing, school supplies, and financial support for his Aunt and Uncle. Additionally, some funds will be sent to Illia's friends who escaped to other cities in the US and friends who remain in Kyiv and the outskirts.

Thank you for the entire community for embracing Illia and supporting his family and friends.