Where Only Hope can Reach

By Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Country Director

As we recently traveled through eastern Ukraine, we saw the truth with our own eyes: the war is escalating. On the eastern front, Russia is gaining new ground daily, pushing aggressively toward the Dnipro region. In some areas, only 5 to 10 kilometers remain before the first villages of that region fall under occupation. This isn’t speculation. It’s reality—visible, measurable, and heart-wrenching.

Only a few weeks ago, the villages in these areas were still pulsating with life. Today they are empty. Most of the villages we visited were home to 400-500 people a month ago, and now only a few dozen remain. The ones left behind are those least able to flee—the elderly, the disabled, the chronically ill. They live on pensions of $20–60 per month. Just getting to the store, if it's open at all, costs about $30, not to mention the groceries themselves. For many, the only choice is to stay and survive with what little they have.

They heat their homes with dead branches and scraps from bombed-out buildings. They drink from rivers laced with fuel and chemicals from military machinery. They grow vegetables under the threat of shelling. They endure. Alone.

In many of these places, the local authorities have no grasp of the situation—the front line is moving too fast. Humanitarian agencies don’t reach these areas. The danger is too high. The infrastructure is gone. The people are invisible.

Except for one group. Ordinary People NGO—our Ukrainian partner—makes the invisible visible. In these villages, they are the only link to the outside world. For this trip, they brought food funded by Giving Machines, clean water from Caritas, hygiene kits, medicine from LHI, and blankets from Wrap the World with Quilts. It’s the end of March, but here, winter still lingers, and the cold bites.

But perhaps the most valuable thing they delivered wasn’t food or medicine. It was hope.

We visited Iskra, a front-line village where Ordinary People had previously distributed aid near a small church. That church—once a beacon of community and comfort—is now rubble. In war-torn villages, churches become more than places of faith. They are gathering points, safe spaces, places where people cling to hope. Now, that place is gone. And with it, for many, the last fragile strand of normalcy.

Still, Ordinary People returned. And here is what I admire most about them—not just their courage, not just their logistical skill, but their humanity.

Where some humanitarian groups chase numbers and headlines, this team puts people first. We've heard stories of others dumping entire trucks of bread in villages of 50 people, only to flee moments later for safety. The bread rots. The people are left with nothing but a memory of being rushed, not helped.

Ordinary People do the opposite. Oleh, Oleh, Yurii, and Dr. Vlad treat each person with the dignity they deserve. At every stop, they don’t just hand out aid — they connect. They talk. They listen. They share stories from the “big world,” remind people what life used to be like, and offer reassurance that it can be that way again.

They help elderly villagers choose the right glasses from donated pairs, laughing with them about how soon they will be able to see their grandchildren's eyes clearly again. They carry heavy boxes of food to battered bicycles and strap them down so they won't fall off during the long ride home. They wrap frail bodies in hand-sewn quilts from Utah and choose the colors with care, with affection.

Every mission ends in hugs. In tears. In promises that peace will come. But until it does, there are people who refuse to abandon the ones caught in the crossfire. People who believe — fiercely, stubbornly — in human decency.

Right now, international funding for Ukraine is drying up. Humanitarian organizations are scaling back. Essentials are becoming scarce.

But Ordinary People hold something more precious than money or logistics. They hold belief — in others, in community, in the worth of every life.

And they share it, every single day.

I’m proud to have joined them on this latest mission into the Donetsk region. Proud to carry boxes, share stories, and stand beside a team that defines what it means to be human in a time of war.

We Stand with Ukraine

By Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Country Director

Oleh distributing warm hugs and blankets to the elderly residents of Yalta village.

For three years, Ukraine has been living through a nightmare. The war hasn’t stopped. The suffering hasn’t stopped. The need for aid hasn’t stopped. Yet, as the war rages on, international support is shrinking. Major funding sources have been cut, including critical U.S. humanitarian aid. Many organizations that once provided lifesaving assistance are scaling down or pulling out entirely. A potential agreement is being crafted without Ukrainian input and without consideration of Ukrainian sovereignty.

Now, more than ever, we are committed to continuing our high-impact programs throughout Ukraine.

Aid delivered to rural villages in the embattled Donetsk region.

Food and Medical Aid

We work in towns where the grocery store has been shut down for years, the local hospital was bombed long ago, and the only way to get drinking water during the winter is to melt snow. Elderly people are living on nothing but bread and tea. Families are forced to choose between going hungry in a basement shelter and getting shelled as they attempt to find food. This is the reality right now in Ukraine’s war-torn regions.

In response, we’ve delivered food and medicine to those who need it most—to villages on the frontlines, hospitals struggling to function, and people who lost everything. We delivered emergency surgical supplies to a frontline hospital, just days before hundreds were injured in a missile strike. We helped hundreds of people evacuate from under fire and destroyed villages to new homes and new hope.

A group therapy session for women who have lost a loved one to the war.

Psychological Support

There’s another war happening in Ukraine, one that doesn’t make the headlines. It’s the battle inside people’s minds.

Children who flinch at every loud sound. Mothers who haven’t slept in months. Grandparents who have buried all of their descendents. Trauma in Ukraine runs deep, and its scars aren’t always visible. That’s why we focus not only on delivering food and supplies, but also on helping people heal.

One of the women in our program, Natalia, lost her husband on the battlefield. For months, she was drowning in grief to a point where she could no longer speak. She joined group therapy sessions, hesitant at first, but over time she started talking again. Today she doesn’t just attend—she leads. She now helps other widows navigate their pain, proving that healing is not just possible, but contagious.

For many, this psychological support isn’t just about mental well-being, it’s the difference between giving up and fighting to live.

Psychological support sessions for kids at our Center for Mother and Child in Kherson City.

Rebuilding Communities

War doesn’t just destroy buildings. It destroys entire lives. When a missile wipes out a home, it erases more than just walls and furniture. It erases safety, stability, and dignity.

We’ve seen families huddled in basements for months, with no running water, no electricity and no certainty about tomorrow. But we’ve also seen something incredible: resilience. People picking up bricks and rubble to rebuild, turning ruins into homes again, refusing to be broken.

That’s why we are working alongside communities to help them recover. In Kherson, we’ve helped rebuild destroyed homes. We’ve helped local women regain their self-confidence and learn new skills to provide for their families. In Lviv, we’re helping displaced women cope with the horrors they have experienced, restore their faith in life, and even start their own businesses. In Kharkiv, we’ve worked with volunteers to create safe spaces for children to laugh, play, and just be kids again, even with the sounds of explosions in the distance.

War doesn't define the future of Ukrainians. They do. And as long as they are willing to fight for it, we will be there with them every step of the way.

Two family members during a distribution of coal and winter clothes for Myrne village, Donetsk region.

Holding On Together

Why does anyone stay put near the frontlines? Why do elderly women stay in villages that are hit on a daily basis? Why do people stay in cities that are occupied, or at risk of occupation, like Pokrovsk or Kherson? Why do some even return to homes under Russian occupation?

The truth is that leaving is not a simple choice. Displacement is exhausting. Shelters are overcrowded, aid is running low, and the uncertainty of starting over with nothing is overwhelming. Many displaced people spend months or even years moving from one temporary shelter to another, only to realize there is nowhere that truly feels safe.

But perhaps the most important reason why people stay (or return) is that for most Ukrainians, their home is their only financial asset. Most families inherited their homes or land from prior generations who were assigned them during the Soviet era. Losing that home means losing everything. If their city falls under Russian control, they may never be able to access their property again. There will be no compensation, no way to reclaim what was lost.

For an elderly woman in a frontline village, leaving might mean dying alone in a shelter. For a young family, it might mean never having a stable home again. The choice is never simple or easy. It is not just about survival—it is about dignity and holding onto the last piece of a life that war has not yet stolen.

The most important thing to remember is that humanitarian aid is so much more than the initial emergency response. We listen to people to make sure we provide the exact support, physical and emotional, that people need to get through excruciating situations. So, every box of food, every warm blanket, and every session with a psychologist is more than just humanitarian work—it’s a recognition of Ukrainian resilience, and a message of hope and support.

A Photographer’s Perspective: Capturing Strength in Ukraine

By Shannon Ashton, LHI Board Member

Shannon Ashton recently visited Ukraine with Hayley, LHI’s Founder/CEO, and Mary, LHI’s Board Chair, to witness the impact of our programs firsthand.

In Lviv, women and children fleeing devastation in eastern Ukraine find refuge in our shelter and strength at our Center for Women’s Development—safe spaces where they can begin to heal from the ongoing trauma of war. Over shared meals and afternoon tea, our team listened as women shared their stories of immense loss, resilience, and hope.

A professional photographer, Shannon has documented LHI’s work since 2015. On this journey, she captured powerful moments of grief and strength, preserving the stories of those rebuilding their lives under the threat of Russian occupation.

Day 1: January 17, 2025

To enter Ukraine from the west we have to fly into Krakow, drive to the Ukraine border, and then walk across to where our partners meet us. It’s a bit of a roll of the dice as to how long it can all take but Krakow has become an important outpost on these journeys.

Today we visited a military cemetery that is unfortunately growing by the day, and was one of the most heartbreaking experiences of the journey. I had visited this cemetery less than 12 months ago when it was much, much smaller and I was taken aback by how it has swelled in the time since. As we silently walked through the rows of fallen soldiers, we looked up to see a caravan approach and realised we had become the unintentional guests of a newly fallen soldier’s funeral ceremony.

We watched as their fellow comrades in arms, family members, and friends gathered in song and salute to honour this brave patriot. We paid our respects by kneeling in the snow as the coffin was carried up to the top of the cemetery hill to reach its resting place. I wept tears of grief that took me off guard. I, a mere visitor, had no right to these tears, but I was overcome with sadness at this loss and the many others before me. To my Ukrainian friends, I offer you my heartfelt compassion and love as you continue to suffer the hardship and losses of this war.

Day 2: January 18, 2025

We spent an incredibly moving afternoon attending the Center for Women’s Development in Lviv. We met women who’ve become widows or otherwise suffered great personal losses in this war, who are struggling to find a way forward from the traumas they’ve experienced. Their stories are heartbreaking. This incredible women’s center offers highly trained psychological support that helps these women heal, and provides a safe space for meaningful connection and community. Ultimately this gives them hope and support through the darkness of war.

The impact of a casual afternoon tea social like the one pictured above is immense and far reaching. The tragedies of this war are legion but centers like this are providing tools and opportunity for hope—and hope is everything. I cannot say enough about the women running this operation. They are highly qualified professionals with hearts of gold.

Day 3: January 19, 2025

Today I met 87 year old Raïsa and her daughter. They’re so sweet! They recently fled the east of Ukraine and arrived at the LHI Women’s Shelter in Lviv. I’m so struck by their soft spoken nature. They are so lovely! They have endured so much trauma and they arrive here with heavy hearts. Raïsa survived the bombing of World War II, and never thought she would have to go through it again for a second time.

Staying in a humble shelter with wooden bunks is no one’s idea of a happy way to spend your later years. Raïsa and her daughter should be enjoying a peaceful life in their hometown, but this war continues to rage on. Our shelter is providing a lifeline for many women like Raïsa. I hope for peace in Ukraine so that all can return to their rightful homes. I stand by Ukraine in sharing these stories.

The above photo shows many other residents of the shelter with our wonderful partners who lovingly run this facility.

Day 4: January 20, 2025

I’m now back from Ukraine. The war rages on. Bombs are still dropping. People are still hungry and cold, in dire need of aid and evacuation. The oppression of war looms overhead, bringing destruction and threatening to rob people of peace and freedom.

Amidst all of this, many good hands are working to help those most severely affected by the trauma of this war. People are bringing medical supplies to the front lines, offering shelter to the displaced, providing psychological support to the emotionally scarred and so, so many other good things. The work being done by our teams on the ground is truly heroic. Meeting with them and seeing first hand the efforts they are engaged in is like standing among the greatest of humanitarian giants.

Bridging the Gaps for Communities in Donetsk

By Anastasiia Shelukhina, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager

With plummeting temperatures and dwindling resources, survival in frontline villages throughout Ukraine’s Donetsk region grows increasingly desperate. These communities are cut off from the world—bridges and infrastructure have been destroyed, government aid is an empty promise, and most NGOs have abandoned the area, leaving these villages to endure the worst of the war. Russian forces loom ever closer, threatening to engulf what remains of their homes and lives.

Yet, even in these dire circumstances, our team, Ordinary People, refuses to abandon them. Braving extraordinary dangers, they deliver coal, winter shoes, and blankets—lifesaving provisions for a brutal winter. In this journal, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager, Anastasiia Shelukhina, recounts a mission to the villages of Yalta and Myrne, where the team faced dire challenges to reach those who need help the most.

Anastasiia with Tetiana, Ordinary People’s SMM specialist.

Day 1: December 19, 2024—Yalta Village, Donetsk Region

With a mix of anticipation and anxiety, we began our first winterisation project of the season early in the morning. Questions plagued our minds: Would there be enough coal and shoes for everyone? Would the bags remain intact? Would we face issues at the checkpoints?

Our first stop was at the house of the local coordinator, Nataliia. She greeted us warmly and showed us her chickens and pigs. Her voice trembled and tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke of the possibility of leaving them behind.

Outside, people were already gathered, waiting patiently to receive their coal. Ordinary People’s team members, Oleg and Yurii, jumped in to help unload the bags—each one weighed 25 kilograms. They came up with a clever idea to use a beam to lower the heavy sacks. It worked perfectly, and soon everyone was pitching in to help.

Meanwhile, I spoke with a local woman who told me that Yalta village has had no electricity or gas since early December. The government keeps promising electricity, but people don’t believe it will come anytime soon. The latest government commitment— an aid delivery by January 3rd—was met with skepticism.

Sudden machine gun fire in the distance reminded us to hurry. Coal was dumped straight onto the ground, and the villagers worked together like a well-oiled machine, hauling the heavy bags and receiving their shoes.

We met a young boy among the villagers.

Among the villagers, we spotted a child. We couldn’t leave without giving him a small gift—a blanket and a school bag—and it sparked a moment of joy despite the looming danger.

As we drove away, the sky lit up with the most stunning sunset. It felt like the perfect way to end a challenging but fulfilling day. We made a difference, and that’s what mattered most.

Day 2: December 20, 2024—Yalta Village, Donetsk Region

The bridge used to reach rural villages in Eastern Ukraine.

We woke up to alarming news: the bridge we crossed yesterday was damaged and mined overnight. The realization hit hard—if we had been delayed by just one day, we wouldn’t have been able to deliver coal to the people in Yalta. With no choice but to adapt, we found an alternative route to Yalta and pressed on.

Oleh distributing warm hugs and blankets to the elderly residents of Yalta.

This time, our focus was on distributing food kits and blankets to elderly individuals. It was also a chance to check the coal’s quality, talk to people, and see their living conditions. Despite their poverty, one thing stood out—every house and yard was clean and tidy.

A man gratefully shared that “One bucket [of coal] lasts almost the whole night.” The villagers’ appreciation was overwhelming, and some even said, “This is too much.” My response was simple: “Take it—no one knows when we’ll be able to return.”

Midway through the day, the White Angels—an evacuation and paramedics team from the Donetsk Regional Police—received troubling news. Another bridge near Andriivka was destroyed. Despite the tense atmosphere, we quickly managed to visit four more houses, ensuring everyone received their supplies.

Day 3: December 21, 2024—Myrne Village, Donetsk Region

With the bridge situation unresolved, we shifted our efforts to Myrne village. This time, we prepared for our largest distribution thus far—21 tonnes of coal, or 10 bags for each family. When we arrived, people were already gathered and waiting patiently.

Yuri, Anastasiia, and Oleh with a resident of Myrne village.

Two amazing coordinators, Nadiia and Lidiia, were there to assist, keeping the mood light with jokes. One man had the brilliant idea to divide the 10 bags into smaller amounts for easier handling. The system worked perfectly, and everyone waited calmly in the queue.

The villagers were incredibly welcoming. They offered us candies and coffee, and their open, talkative nature lightened the load of a heavy day. By the end of the distribution, we felt a deep sense of accomplishment.

Vira and Galyna are two friends who live near Myrne village. They helped with coordination.

That same evening, we packed up and headed back to Kharkiv, reflecting on another successful mission. But, as we looked back on the day’s events, it was impossible to ignore the growing difficulties—the lack of electricity and gas, and the uncertainty about when or if help will come again.

The villages we visited are becoming isolated, both physically and in spirit. The damaged bridges are more than just logistical challenges; they are a stark reminder of the broken connection between these communities and the outside world. Every delay in delivering aid, every empty promise from officials, and every broken piece of infrastructure pushes them closer to despair. Despite everything, the people we met showed incredible strength. They keep their homes clean, work together, and find ways to stay hopeful.

As we drove back to Kharkiv, we couldn’t help but think about how important it is to keep supporting these villages. Even though the roads are difficult, we must return and remind them that they are not forgotten.

Thank you to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their charity organization, Latter-day Saint Charities Australia (LDSCA), for their generous support of this winterization mission.

Mission of Resilience: Part II

By Anastasiia Shelukhina, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager

Come with us to the frontlines of conflict in Ukraine, where resilience and hope shine brightly, even amidst the shadows of war. In October 2024, LHI’s team undertook a four-day journey to deliver aid to struggling frontline villages in the embattled Donetsk region. LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager, Anastasiia Shelukhina, documented this powerful mission in a journal.

Over the first two days, the team visited the villages of Pokrovske, Prosiane, and Odradne, distributing food kits, hygiene products, medical supplies, and other essentials. Despite the pain of war, the villagers shared stories of hope, greeting the team with warm smiles and gestures of gratitude. Anastasiia found herself deeply inspired by their unity—a poignant reminder of humanity's capacity to support one another during the hardest times.

Check out Part I of her field journal here.

Below, Anastasiia recounts the latter half of their mission, as they braved the risks of drone strikes to continue delivering life saving aid to those who need it most.

Day 3: October 9, 2024

As the day began, we sipped coffee and prepared for our mission to Rozdol’ne. We presented our documents as we passed through the checkpoint for approved entry into the village. On the way to Rozdol’ne, two members of the White Angels—an evacuation and paramedics team from the Donetsk Regional Police—joined our team. They warned us that enemy aircraft were looming nearby, making us vulnerable to airstrikes. Before we could safely continue, we had to wait until the drone wasn’t on our radar. As the wait dragged on, we heard that 4 enemy UAV drones were in the air over Velyka Novosilka village, just a few kilometers from our stop. Once we finally received a signal that the threat had been repulsed, we quickly left for Rozdol’ne village.

Distributing aid under the shelter of trees in Rozdol’ne.

We arrived in Rozdol’ne to the sounds of nearby explosions, with local residents waiting for us under two large trees. The active front was very close, and we were still worried about the threat of drone activity. The village head, Lyudmila Petrivna, urged everyone to receive aid  as quickly as possible, and despite the tense threat of nearby war, we found comfort in the community’s joy.

Iryna is from the rural village of Zhelanne, which was invaded by Russian forces in October 2024.

One woman named Inna approached me, eager to share her family's story. She revealed that her mother had nine children, and unfortunately, only four of her siblings were still alive. Our conversation was cut short by the urgency of the situation, leaving little time for deeper exchanges.

I also met a well-dressed 76 year old woman with bright red lipstick named Olga Mykhailivna, who received a lovely pair of shoes. Before we left, she kindly asked us to notify her before our next visit, so she could prepare us some savory, deep fried turnovers called chebureky. Her warm gesture touched our hearts and reminded us of the importance of hope during these difficult times.

Meanwhile, Dr. Vlad was busy providing consultations, and was able to see seven patients in total. He expressed disappointment at not being able to help more people, but I reassured him that every bit of support mattered. Before leaving, I hugged Lyudmila Petrivna, the village head, assuring her that our team would return soon. Time was of the essence, and our safety remained a top priority.

On our drive back, we stopped at the White Angels’ house in Bahatyr village to deliver winter car tires for their evacuation vehicle. We thanked them for their invaluable support and contemplated the possibility of adopting a few cats from Velyka Novosilka during the team's next visit.

We collected beautiful red peppers from this field near Bahatyr village.

On our way out, we spotted a field bursting with ripe red peppers. The locals generously offered them for free, urging us to hurry before any shelling resumed. With a few beautiful peppers in hand, we finally returned safely to Pokrovske.

But our mission wasn’t over just yet. The cost of rent in the front-line settlements of the Dnipropetrovsk region, where families from the Donetsk region have been evacuating to, has skyrocketed due to the exponential demand from both civilians and military members. Our final stop was to provide support for a family who was resettled near Pokrovske, and has been struggling with the high cost of living.

Their children, still shocked by the loss of their home, quietly accepted their gifts and quickly returned to their room. We spoke with their mother and agreed to continue our support in the future.

Day 4: October 10, 2024

With the dawn of a new day and bright sunshine, we went to the warehouse in Prosiane. Our mission was to load a bus with essential items, school kits, and toys for 150 children in Prosiane village. We carefully chose blankets, backpacks, and diapers, ensuring we had everything necessary for the little ones.

Yurii distributing toys to children in Prosiane.

By 10 a.m, families were already gathered in the square, eagerly waiting for our arrival. We began distributing the kits, calling out names for families to come forward. The joy on the children’s faces when they received backpacks and toys was heartwarming; they immediately started playing with their new treasures. I joined in the distribution, engaging with local women to discuss their needs, specifically regarding diapers. They requested larger sizes for our next visit, and we promised to bring them.

Once the distribution was complete, we loaded up the remaining items and headed to a nearby cafe for coffee. Children played with local cats and dogs, filling the atmosphere with laughter and warmth. Safely back in the city, we reflected on the day’s experiences and the connections we had made.

This mission showed me the incredible strength and kindness of the people living amid chaos in the Donetsk region. Families who had lost everything still welcomed us with warm smiles. Even with the pain of war on their shoulders, they shared stories of hope and support. Their resilience was inspiring—a true reminder of how strong and united people can be, even during the hardest times.

Mission of Resilience: Bringing Aid and Hope to the Donetsk Region

By Anastasiia Shelukhina, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager

Since the war in Ukraine began in 2022, over 1.2 million people have been forced to flee the embattled, eastern Donetsk Oblast. With three-fifths of the region under Russian military occupation, life for Ukrainians has become increasingly more difficult and dangerous. Over the past two months, Russian forces have advanced at a rapid pace, seizing several eastern Ukrainian towns. Many of those who remain in towns like Pokrovske, Prosiane, and Odradne are elderly, with little access to essentials, medical care, and psychological support. Despite these challenges, residents remain steadfast and resilient, determined to stay in their hometowns.

Last month, LHI’s team conducted a series of aid deliveries to struggling, frontline villages throughout the Donetsk region. LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager, Anastasiia Shelukhina documented her heroic journey in a journal. Her story highlights LHI’s exceptional ability to deliver aid where other organizations can’t, and the importance of hope for those living near the frontlines in Donetsk.

Anastasiia and Oleh, ready to deliver boxes of aid to the Donetsk region.

Day 1: October 7, 2024

Our journey began around 10:30 a.m. as we set off from Kharkiv, determined to reach our aid warehouse in Pokrovske as swiftly as possible. Known as the "western gate of Donbas," Pokrovske is a small town at the edge of the embattled Donetsk region. We traveled in a convoy led by an ambulance, followed by a bus with our five-member team. Among us was also Dr. Vlad, who regularly joins our missions and provides psychological support sessions for those persevering through the dangers of life near the frontlines.

When we arrived in Pokrovske, we met with Alyona Levterova, a representative of the military administration for the Volnovakha district. We discussed our upcoming humanitarian efforts and the challenges of helping the local population prepare for the winter. It felt great to know that we have open channels of communication and that our connections with the local authorities are solidifying.

Meanwhile, Yurii, Oleh and Dr. Vlad prepared a delicious barbeque. We exchanged stories under the rain and went to bed anticipating the productive days ahead.

Anastasiia, Yurii, and Oleh heading into Odradne village. 

Day 2: October 8, 2024

At 8 a.m., we hit the road to pick up food kits, hygiene products, and medical supplies at the humanitarian aid warehouses in Pokrovske and Prosiane before heading to Odradne village for distribution. The weather was surprisingly warm and sunny for October, lifting our spirits. At the time, I was unaware of the risk that comes with clear skies.

Before we could leave the Prosiane village warehouse, some local women invited us for a quick coffee and tea. As we sat down, I noticed a laptop open to a guide entitled, "How to React and Act During Chemical Weapons Attacks." The reality of war was right in front of us. And yet, in the same moment, our hosts enthusiastically shared their community initiatives. One woman, beaming with pride, told us they had submitted a song to a local contest. Their ability to continue creating, sharing, and celebrating life in the face of danger left a deep impression on me.

A group of young men from the White Angels—an evacuation and paramedics team from the Donetsk Regional Police—accompanied us to our next location, Odradne village. The White Angels lead humanitarian efforts at the frontlines amidst constant shelling and enemy advances, all without coordination or support from the military. One of the men, just 24 years old, mentioned he had written his resignation letter. With quiet frustration, he said, “They don’t give us anything. We’re on our own for everything.” It was a stark reminder of how the system often fails those on the frontlines, leaving them to navigate war on their own.

Anastasiia with the kind residents of Odradne village.

When we finally arrived at Odradne village, the residents were already gathered and waiting for us. The paramedic-midwifery center in Odradne has been closed since the beginning of the war, and the last time Doctors Without Borders came to the village was in March of this year. With no other options, Dr. Vlad immediately began providing his psycho-emotional support consultations in our local coordinator’s home. For Ukrainians who have chosen to stay in their homes, these sessions are especially important, reminding residents that we’re by their side.

As we began distributing aid, the residents moved like clockwork, quickly forming a human chain to pass down the boxes. We distributed clothes that had come from the U.S., prompting a few jokes about shoes that didn’t quite suit village life. Laughter filled the air as people tried on shiny boots better suited for a night out than the dirt roads of Odradne.

One woman approached me, requesting diapers for her bedridden mother. As we started talking, she mentioned that it hadn’t rained in a long time, the fields were dry, and the sun didn’t bring much joy anymore. Oleh warned me that Russian forces target humanitarian workers more often during sunny weather, turning my enjoyment of the clear skies into quiet dread.

When we arrived at the woman’s house later that day with the diapers, she broke down in tears, explaining how expensive they were and how impossible it was to find them in their isolated village. As a gesture of gratitude, her daughter insisted on giving me several jars of home-canned zucchini and cherries.

Mykhailovych and Yurii with our delicious zucchini.

Our day ended back at the warehouse in Povkrovske, where we finally had a chance to rest. Dr. Vlad cooked a delicious meal of barbecue and buckwheat. We opened one of the gifted jars of zucchini—it was the tastiest zucchini I ever had—and reflected on the day’s events over dinner.

By the end of the first two days, I felt a mix of exhaustion and gratitude. Meeting people who showed such kindness and strength despite the hardships reminded me of the real purpose of our work and why we always return. We had come to bring help, but we left with a deeper sense of hope. Each interaction, warm smile, shared laugh, or small gift fostered a deep sense of community that thrives even in these difficult times. Looking ahead, we were ready for new challenges, knowing that each stop would bring more stories and moments to remember.

Love from eastern Ukraine!

The Long Road to Safety

By Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Country Director

Ihor with Stas, LHI Lviv Shelter manager and evacuation coordinator from NGO I Am Not Alone, at the entrance to Zaporizhzhia city.

Our evacuation trip to Zaporizhzhia and Pavlohrad was not only long and exhausting, but also emotionally draining. We covered over 2500 kilometers (1600 miles) in three days, navigating dangerous, war-torn regions with little to no rest. From Lviv, we made our way to Zaporizhzhia, where we picked up a group of civilians displaced from the frontlines. They were silent and withdrawn, weighed down by loss and uncertainty. Most were elderly individuals or mothers with children, their eyes hollow from the constant strain of living through war.

In Pavlohrad, we were supposed to pick up a second group of evacuees from Pokrovsk, a city now largely reduced to ruins. But fate had other plans. After surviving the destruction of Pokrovsk, the group found themselves bombarded once again in Pavlohrad. The emotional and physical toll was too much. Physically and emotionally exhausted, they made the difficult decision to stay in Dnipro for a few days to recover and plan their next steps.

One of our evacuees, Oleh, a retired teacher from Orikhiv, shared his story with us. His hometown, just 8 kilometers from the front line, was reduced to rubble. The only remnant of his old life was a refrigerator, somehow untouched amidst the ruins. "We have nothing left," he said, "except memories and the hope that this war will one day end." For now, Oleh and his wife are heading to Denmark, where they will start over in a foreign land, completely uncertain of the future.

Then there was Andriy (name changed), a quiet, dignified man with noble gray hair. As the miles passed, he shared his own story. A priest and chaplain from a small town in Donetsk, Andriy was in western Ukraine when the war began. His mother, bedridden and elderly, was left behind in the occupied town. Despite numerous attempts to reach her, Andriy never succeeded. He spent months volunteering and helping civilians until he injured his arm during a recent shelling. His injury forced him to join our evacuation. He planned to reunite with his son in Vinnytsia for treatment and to figure out how to rescue his mother from the occupation.

We dropped Andriy off on a dark, deserted highway near Vinnytsia. All that remained of his past life fit into a small backpack. His eyes reflected his emotional scars and worry for his mother. Yet, his last words to us were filled with hope and faith: "God bless you. Help yourself and your loved ones. And believe in a near victory."

People boarding our bus in Zaporizhzhia for further evacuation.

As we completed the long journey back to Lviv, leaving behind the ruins, chaos, and heavy silence, it was impossible not to feel the weight of these stories. Each person we helped was carrying the loss of a home, a family, a sense of security that would likely never return. Yet, even in the face of devastation, hope persists. It’s found in the quiet resolve of Oleh, holding onto memories as their only connection to the life they once knew. It’s in the strength of Andriy, who, despite being torn away from his mother and his past, offered us words of faith and encouragement.

This trip reminded me that the road to safety and stability is long, and for many, it’s still uncertain. But with every kilometer covered, every person helped, and every story shared, we see that resilience remains. These are the people we serve—their courage inspires us to fight for their future. This is why we do what we do, even when the path is long and the road is hard. Because for these people, it’s a journey not just of survival, but of finding hope again.

Thank you to The 188 Foundation for funding our evacuation missions.

Meet Kira in Balakliya, Ukraine!

By Ivy Laidlaw-Morris

Eight-year-old Kira lives in Balaklia, a small village in northeastern Ukraine. Her favorite color is bright, bubbly, pink and her favorite scent is flowers. She loves taking walks with friends, especially in autumn. For Kira, happiness lies in surprises—unexpected gifts and moments shared with loved ones. In her future, she envisions herself as a successful programmer, creating innovations that improve lives and inspire others. She also has an even bigger aspiration of owning a cat one day! 

Everything about Kira would tell you she’s your typical, happy, eight-year-old girl, but what makes her truly special is her resilience. For half of her life, the world around her has been in crisis. She grew up during the uncertainties of the pandemic, and shortly thereafter, was forced into the realities of war. In March of 2022, Kira’s hometown of Balaklia was occupied by Russian forces, and despite the village’s liberation, the feeling of war still permeates everyday life for local residents.   

And yet, Kira keeps dreaming of her brightest future. She finds solace and support at our community center in Balaklia, where art therapy sessions provide a space for her to unwind, breathe, and create. LHI seeks to uplift Kira and children like her to follow their dreams… together, we want to build a future where eight-year-olds can be eight-year-olds, free of burdens of displacement, trauma, and violence. 

About Ivy: Hi, I’m Ivy, an intern working with LHI. Like Kira, my favorite time of year is autumn. My favorite thing to do in my free time is explore the nature of Brooklyn, and my favorite holiday is Halloween! Since I was little I’ve been involved with refugee aid through my parents, and LHI’s mission of uplifting and empowering those fleeing persecution and violence is so important to me. I look forward to continued work for and with those like Kira!

Life in the Shadow of War: A Journey to Velyka Novosilka

by Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Country Director

The sky over Velyka Novosilka, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, is shrouded in the gray shade of war. It is April 2024, and this is the second year of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As I set foot on this war-torn land, the harsh reality of the conflict hits me in a way I could never have imagined. The people here are living on the edge of survival, but their spirit remains unbroken.

Ihor (left) stands in the village of Velyka Novosilka in Eastern Ukraine

Our mission is to deliver humanitarian aid to those who need it. I meet Svetlana, a local woman who has taken on the role of coordinator for her neighbors and friends. Despite the constant danger, she helps us distribute aid and provides a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of this new reality. While the doctor is tending to the sick, Svitlana agrees to show me her apartment, or rather what's left of it.

The entrance to the building is marked with the word "People". It is a desperate call, a message to the Russian soldiers who could break into the city any day and who often "clean up" buildings in captured cities without regard to whether there are civilians or military inside. The sign is meant to protect, but its effectiveness is questionable. However, in the face of such uncertainty, hope clings to even the smallest gestures. 

Svitlana leads me to her top-floor apartment. She opens the door very carefully to prevent her cat from escaping. The cat, once a victim of cruelty, now cowers in fear of strangers. She once rescued this then kitten from a big dog, to which people had thrown it, and had abused it beforehand. The apartment is a shell of its former self. Windows shattered by relentless shelling, the balcony littered with broken glass, the wind seeping through every crack. It is no longer a home but a storage space for belongings and food.

In stark contrast, Svitlana's basement "room" tells a story of survival. It is a tiny, dark space, no larger than 2 meters by 2 meters, once a technical room now turned into her sanctuary. She has been living here for over two years, without electricity or water. Her main source of light is a makeshift lantern—a plate of sunflower oil with a smoldering string. This dim light is a ray of hope in the long, anxious nights for thousands of people like Svetlana - people for whom life ended in February 2022 and endless survival and struggle began.

Despite the dire conditions, Svitlana's resilience shines through. We step into the courtyard, and there, in the middle of the apartment building yard, where flowers once bloomed, stands a mini-farm. Svitlana grows fresh vegetables and fruits, a lifeline for the locals who have no access to fresh produce. Their only source of food is humanitarian aid brought by volunteer teams like ours. Her greatest pride is her strawberry bushes. As she shows them to me, her eyes light up. "In another month or so, we will have real strawberries. Can you imagine?" she says, her voice filled with hope.

Next to the strawberries, a broken tree stands as a reminder of the shelling the day before. The contrast is stark—while I can easily buy strawberries from a hypermarket across the street, Svitlana risks her life to grow them. Her determination to grow these little red gems in a war zone says a lot about the human spirit.

Svitlana's story is just one of many. The people of Velyka Novosilka live in constant fear, yet they find ways to adapt and survive. They have created a community of resilience, supporting each other through the darkest times. They remind me that even in the face of unimaginable hardship, the human spirit remains unbroken.

As I leave Velyka Novosilka, I carry with me a sense of awe and admiration for these people. Their strength and determination are a beacon of hope. They show me that even in the shadow of war, life goes on. And as long as there are people like Svitlana, there is hope for a brighter future.

Travelogue: A Week in Ukraine With LHI

by Shannon Ashton, LHI Board Member

Flags bearing the names of fallen Ukranian soldiers in Independence Square, Kyiv.

February 12, 2024

Chisinau, Moldova

I’m on a bus from Moldova to Ukraine in support of crisis relief in the ongoing war in Ukraine. We’ll cross the border in just a little while. I’ll be all over the country documenting relief efforts and capturing stories from the front lines. This trip doesn’t come without risks so prayers for our team are gratefully accepted. 

February 15, 2024

Odesa, Ukraine

We could hear a soft voice floating through the misty, cold night air in Odesa. A few people scattered on mostly empty benches. An attempt at normal life. Barbed wires and hedgehogs stand guard and nearby prized monuments are covered and sandbagged. We stop and listen. The music glides through the foggy night as a brave act of hope.

February 16, 2024

Odesa, Ukraine

Vadim’s Odesa flat was destroyed by a drone attack two weeks ago. When he heard the siren he ushered his mother out of their first floor flat down to safety in a more secure spot on the ground floor of the building. That move surely saved their lives. Vadim, a young twenty-something, is a member of the LHI team working in Ukraine. He carries on—going to work and helping others. He quietly shared the news of his flat, and generously offered to allow us to visit, with permission to share. The trauma is fresh. No roof. Rubble covers everything, and what remains stands still in time. His neighbour across the hall was saved only because she was in the shower, literally the only space in her flat not completely destroyed. Vadim’s resilience and strength is incredibly inspiring. He even manages to crack a few smiles. I honestly don’t know how.  He is in a temporary shelter as he awaits an assessment to know if his building will be condemned, like so many countless others.  This happened just two weeks ago. The war is not over.

February 18, 2024

Kyiv, Ukraine

People here are trying to live their lives as best they can, but signs of war are everywhere. Very few spaces in Kyiv are without some reminder of war. Whether it’s blown out windows, pitted building walls, the darkened streets at night (curfews run across the country), minefield warnings, air raid sirens, sandbagged statues, sounds of explosions, the evidence of war goes on and on. Mostly it’s the long look of war on the faces of the people we meet. We chat to a few, they are curious about our American accents and why we’re here (no one is coming here). We’re met with warmth and gratitude for our support, but the trauma of war is written all over their faces. The men cannot leave the country. Many of age are already fighting. Those who aren’t wait for their call. Or maybe conscription will get to them first. We enjoy a nice meal; restaurants are open. The main courses come with a side of air raid sirens. War is relentless. And this is life in Kyiv, currently better off than what is going on in eastern Ukraine, where we go next.

February 19, 2024

Kharkiv, Ukraine

During our two days in Kharkiv the sirens were nearly nonstop. I’m so rattled by this experience. A missile struck the city while we were visiting program centers in nearby villages. There is no knowing when or where the strikes will come. We heard mines go off; every piece of earth is a minefield now. And with all this, your nervous system begins an internal battle. And in these eastern frontline locations the missile defense system is almost nonexistent. There is no time for detection or deployment as it’s too close to the source, Russia mere kilometres away. I was overcome with worry and anxiety as we settled into our accommodations for the night. The doubt and fear that creeps in when the sirens ring out. Where to go. What to do. This all layered on top of sleep deprivation. It’s psychological warfare. And I only have to deal with it for one week here. For those living in Ukraine it’s become a way of life. Reminders of war are everywhere as destruction lies in the dark wake of war. There is a resolute determination I find uniquely Ukrainian that completely overwhelms me. I feel so fragile here. 

A local artist gifted a heartbreaking painting to LHI. It represents the horrors of this war. Two years and still no end in sight.

To find out more about LHI’s programs in Ukraine, or to donate to keep those programs running, visit the Ukraine page on our website.

LHI Humanitarian Aid Warehouse Volunteer Spotlight: Nikita

by Nikita Posvolskii , LHI Humanitarian Warehouse Volunteer

LHI Humanitarian Aid Warehouse volunteer Nikita helps to translate box labels into Ukranian.

LHI works because of people like our LHI Humanitarian Aid Warehouse volunteer Nikita. Nikita is an exchange college student from Russia. He shared this essay explaining his interest in helping LHI’s humanitarian aid efforts, especially those in Ukraine. 

My name is Nikita. Two years ago I was a Russian student getting my undergraduate degree at a university in Moscow. My peers and I loved our country and planned to pursue our careers there. Although we clearly saw our current government's flaws, we believed that we could influence them to change the country we love for the better. Our faith began to weaken after the Russian government started expelling students from their universities for their beliefs and statements that didn’t align with those of the government.

The situation for idealistic students like me became even worse the day Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Saying anything against the war in Ukraine can get you 15 years of imprisonment for “discrediting the Armed Forces of Russia.” You can’t even call the war in Ukraine “the war in Ukraine” without being at risk because its official name in Russia is “special military operation.” If you name it “the war” you can get the same 15 years of jail time. In fact, in the first two months after Russia started the war, more than 15,000 Russians were detained for their connection with anti-war rhetoric and protests. This placed fear in Russian citizens, coercing them into silence for the sake of their lives and the lives of their loved ones. At the same time, it is a horrible feeling to sit and maintain silence when your own country invaded Ukrainian territory and occupied an independent country. It is hard to stay silent when you are against a war that has resulted in the death and displacement of ordinary Ukrainians. 

My feelings of helplessness eased in August 2022 when I came to the U.S. as an exchange student. It’s been amazing to study at a university where students are not afraid to talk about what they really think and believe in. I quickly realized that in the U.S., I could help Ukrainian refugees both in my host community in Utah and in Ukraine itself.

Nikita helps gather materials to set up an apartment for a refugee family resettling in Utah.

My search for the opportunity to help Ukrainians whose lives have been impacted by the Russian invasion led me to the LHI Humanitarian Aid Warehouse in American Fork, Utah. 

I enjoy volunteering with LHI and helping to organize the warehouse, setting up apartments for refugees, especially those from Ukraine, packing orders for shipments overseas, and so much more. I especially enjoy translating the contents of the donation boxes into Ukrainian so it’s easier for Ukrainians to understand what is in each box when they arrive in Ukraine. I’m happy to be here in the U.S. so that I can help. In Russia, providing humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians is punishable by law. 

Nikita organizes shelves of aid that LHI includes in its international shipments.

I believe that it is important to help people who have lost their families and their homes. I am glad that I have found Lifting Hands International, an organization whose ideals match my own. Lifting Hands International exists and continues its work to change the world for the better. If you are a student in the American Fork area or just live there, I highly encourage you to get involved with LHI and make an impact to change someone's life. Let’s change our world and help those who are in need together!

LHI Looks Back on 2023

by Brigid Rowlings, LHI Communications Director

LHI’s COO Walker, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation Jaron, and Founder and Director Hayley distributed aid to survivors of the earthquakes that devastated Turkey and Syria in February.

Looking back over the past year, we cannot believe all you have helped us to do! Here are the highlights!

The LHI Community Center in Serres, Greece

LHI’s Director of Monitoring and Evaluation Jaron and founder of our Utah programs Carlissa lent some elbow grease to improvement projects at the LHI Community Center in Serres.

It was a year of continued growth and innovation at the LHI Community Center, which is located near two refugee camps in Serres, Greece. The LHI Greece team was thrilled to receive new computers for the education program and new shelving for the community center’s aid warehouse. After talking with the women who attend programs at the Female Friendly Space, the team also adjusted the way we distribute clothing, school supplies, baby items and other aid. Instead of handing out parcels, the team instead created “free shops” where beneficiaries can select their own items. This small change not only provides people with a sense of dignity, but also brings a lot of excitement and joy.

The LHI Greece team set up a free shop where parents could shop for baby items including these handmade teddy bears.

utah programs

LHI team members and volunteers loaded this container of aid for Jordan in October.

Our Utah team prepared and shipped 18 containers of material aid to places like Bangladesh, where thousands of Rohingya refugees living in a large refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar were impacted by a fire in March, Afghanistan, where 6.6 million people have been internally displaced by conflict and natural disasters, and Gaza, where over 80% of the population has been displaced. The team also sent 7 shipments to the US/Mexico border to help shelters there provide warm clothing, hygiene products, and baby kits to migrants.

The US Office for Refugee Resettlement provides local resettlement agencies with a list of items that must be in apartments of resettled refugees. If the items aren't donated, they must be purchased from the family's small stipend. LHI's Utah team relies on donations from you to keep our warehouse stocked so that we can provide all the items resettled refugees need!

The Welcome Program has grown so much that we had to expand our warehouse! So far this year, LHI volunteers have set up 285 apartments for refugees resettling in Utah. And, in addition to our long-standing partnerships with the International Rescue Committee and Catholic Community Services, LHI is now working with Cache Refugee and Immigrant Connection to make sure that resettled refugees in Logan, Utah come home to an apartment furnished with everything they need.

ukraine

The battery powered incubators you helped us provide put to good use at Bashtanka Hospital in Mykolaiv, Ukraine.

Last year, we asked you to help us get Ukrainians through a cold and uncertain winter and you responded! We were able to provide generators, battery powered infant incubators, sleeping bags and long underwear throughout Ukraine. Our teams in Ukraine have also been able to get consistent material, medical and psychological aid to frontline communities all year long.

LHI's Ukraine country director Serhii (center) organized LHI's response to the dam collapse, including finding this truck which pumped thousands of tons of water out of homes and businesses.

When the Kakhovka Dam in Kherson province ruptured in June, our teams responded not only by helping those displaced from their homes, but also by pumping thousands of tons of water out of homes and businesses. 

Moldova

Participants in the Story Time Project performed some of the Ukranian folk tales they had read for family and friends!

Looking back on all the work our Moldova team has done with Ukrainian refugees, it is hard to believe that our community center in Balti and our Storytime Project are not even a year old! Both programs provide social emotional support activities for participants and keep Ukrainian language and culture alive.

Children at the LHI Community Center in Balti participate in a yoga class, part of the social emotional supports offered to Ukrainian refugees.

jordan

LHI Founder and Director Hayley Smith toured one of the modular classrooms LHI was able to build for Syrian refugee children in Jordan.

In Jordan, it’s all about kids and kids! The first set of kids are the Syrian refugee children who have benefitted from the 3 modular classrooms we built this year. Because Jordanian schools are already at capacity, building classrooms means that Syrian children can attend school. 

This family turned the 2 milk goats they received from LHI into a herd of 25 in just 2 years!

The second set of kids are the 1,200 Shami milk goats we have distributed to Syrian refugee families. The families who benefited had been goat herders in Syria, but had to leave their herds behind when they fled civil war. Having milk goats allows these families to improve their family’s nutrition and move towards self-sufficiency as they sell milk and grow their herd. One family we visited this year had turned the two milk goats they received two years ago into 25! The income they earned from goat milk and goat products allowed them to leave the refugee camp and rent a home. 

emergency response

LHI's COO Walker distributed aid to an earthquake survivor in Turkey.

LHI specializes in responding to emergency situations quickly, talking to the people impacted, and finding out what they most need. In February, we were able to assist both Turkish and Syrian people impacted by earthquakes by providing medical and psychological first aid, hygiene kits, and food packages. 

LHI responded to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza quickly, finding partners on the ground to help us source aid and get it to civilians who need it in Gaza.

In October, we arrived in Egypt and got right to work finding the right partners to help us get aid to the over one million people displaced in the Gaza Strip. We established a partnership with the Middle East Children’s Alliance (MECA) who helped us get food and medicine into Gaza.

We Couldn’t Have Done It Without You!

Whether you are an LHI volunteer or a donor, whether you’ve tied blankets or assembled hygiene kits for a service project, or whether you are a partner or a grant provider, you are a part of our team. Thank you for your support this year. We look forward to working together again in 2024 to meet needs around the world. Simply humanitarian.

Building Community and Strengthening Bonds at the LHI Ukraine Capacity Building Conference

by Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager

Even baby Mark, the smallest representative from our operating centers across Ukraine, came out for LHI's second capacity-building conference in Lviv, Ukraine!

Did you know that LHI has 7 operating centers all across Ukraine? Our teams at each operating center have figured out ways to best support fellow Ukrainians and deliver humanitarian aid. On September 21-24, LHI held its second capacity-building conference, bringing together representatives from our operating centers as well as from our Moldova program to learn from each other, share best practices, and engage in wellness activities.

LHI has 7 operating centers in Ukraine. Representatives from each center came to Lviv for our second capacity-building conference.

Ihor, LHI’s Partnership Manager in Ukraine, shared this recap of the conference. Ihor joined LHI in August after working for the Ukrainian Red Cross. Thank you, Ihor, for sharing!

A Balanced Blend

The conference achieved a harmonious balance between sharing and learning, and created a safe space for forming and deepening interpersonal relationships. Participants benefited from rich content and expert insights through workshops on ways to efficiently and effectively manage humanitarian work, fundraising, and establishing and maintaining a social media presence.

Ihor helps representatives from one of our operating center share best practices.

The event also facilitated wellness sessions, such as art therapy, meditation, and a tea ceremony. Relationships were formed and strengthened through sharing professional and personal experiences, and paved the way for future collaborative projects.

Conference participants recharged with art therapy.

Conference participants, many of whom work on the front lines or with people who have evacuated from the front lines, take a moment for meditation and self-care.

Relaxing and enjoying a tea ceremony.

Attendees gave the conference rave reviews!

Personal feedback from attendees underscored the event's success in addressing their diverse needs. The agenda was particularly commended for its relevance and thoughtful structure. The practical workshops stood out as valuable, offering hands-on experience that participants could apply directly to their work. Jaron, LHI’s Director of Monitoring and Evaluation  said, “I think this conference is one of the most valuable elements of our capacity-building support for Ukrainian humanitarian teams. Our focus on the well-being of our partners, and providing opportunities for learning and growth, greatly improves the ability of our aid workers to give meaningful support to those most in need. Plus, the new collaborative relationships (and new friendships!) between Ukrainians from all corners of the country will continue long into the future.”

LHI Founder and Director Hayley captures this moment of collaboration and connection.

Networking and collaboration opportunities were hailed as pivotal aspects of the conference. LHI Moldova’s Roman said, “Joining the conference with the LHI Moldova team, we got to know many of the people and projects in Lviv for the very first time - and what a truly beautiful and impressive experience that was! These interactions contributed significantly to the sense of community among attendees and created a platform for potential future initiatives.”

LHI Founder and Director Hayley, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation Jaron, and COO Walker say a fond farewell to Ukrainian team members.

Hayley, LHI’s founder and director, reflected: “Spending quality time with our Ukrainian team members was so wonderful! I loved seeing our teams from different regions of Ukraine come together, away from the frontlines. Our team members work so hard, some in very dangerous situations, and this conference was a great opportunity to thank them face to face!”

Most of all, the conference left our teams in Ukraine refreshed, inspired, and feeling united in our mission. Ukraine country director Serhii said, “LHI’s leadership and our friends can be far away; still, our hearts feel no distance. Our bonds will strengthen while we help Ukrainians together, and our conference was a great chance to meet face-to-face, share our experiences, and brainstorm new projects.”

A Testament to the Power of Collaboration

The LHI Partners Conference 2023 surpassed expectations, offering a comprehensive and enriching experience. It equipped participants with knowledge, skills, and valuable connections necessary for advancing their humanitarian missions. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and shared commitment to making a positive global impact through humanitarian efforts.

If you’d like to learn more about our humanitarian aid efforts in Ukraine and Moldova, please visit our Ukraine response page and our Moldova program page.

Field Journal: Celebrating Summer Successes in Basarabeasca, Moldova

by LHI Volunteers Davide and Thomas

Thomas and Davide, our outstanding international volunteers in Basarabeasca, Moldova, concluded their role as summer camp counselors and teachers by helping to plan an end-of-summer extravaganza! We thank Thomas and Davide for their incredible work this summer. We know the town of Basarabeasca will miss them terribly!

Davide, Thomas, and Edu pose for a group photo outside the Phoenix Center with the campers who made their summer unforgettable!

 August 13th 2023, Basarabeasca, Moldova

Our fourth week at the Phoenix Center kicked off with two full days dedicated to preparing for a significant event—a grand end-of-summer party for the kids! 

Thomas and I spent Tuesday and Wednesday fine-tuning every small detail. As volunteers, we played a significant role in setting up sports games and assisting the kids in practicing various exercises they would showcase to their parents and an official jury on Thursday during a competition. Simultaneously, invitations were sent out, food and beverages were procured, and by Thursday, everything was primed. For the occasion, additional members from the LHI Moldova team traveled to Basarabeasca to offer their support and participate in the festivities. Everyone was excited to have our Director of Field Operations, Edoardo, and our photographer, Octavian, join for the day.

Children competed in fun and creative contests. The winners looked forward to collecting their awards!

After a morning of final preparations and anticipation, the celebrations started around 2 p.m. The event began with sports competitions among the kids. They were divided into two teams under two captains— Thomas and me. In between competitions, other beneficiaries of the center performed choreographed dances, both traditional and contemporary. Once everything concluded, all kids from the two teams were presented with awards, and the center's director, Clara, delivered a speech expressing gratitude to everyone involved, including Edoardo, us, and all the others who had contributed to the effort and work in the past weeks. The remainder of the event unfolded smoothly, featuring entertainers for the children, courtyard dances, and a final soccer match. The atmosphere was joyful and, and everyone was left content.

Campers enjoyed showing off their dance moves!

In the evening, Clara organized a staff dinner to celebrate the end of the summer camp, which had occupied the center and its staff for the past several weeks. The mayor and deputy-mayor of Basarabeasca were also in attendance, offering their support for the project, acknowledging our presence, and once again expressing their gratitude for our contributions. On our part, we extended our thanks to the mayor, deputy-mayor, Clara, and the entire staff for their warm and kind welcome. The dinner stretched on for hours, creating a wonderfully pleasant occasion shared with the entire center team.

Edu, LHI Director of Field Operations in Moldova, and Clara, the director of the Phoenix Center, enjoy the day’s festivities.

Friday saw a quieter atmosphere at the center, but a new project was on the horizon. In the late afternoon, a group of artists from Romania arrived to commence work on two graffiti pieces on the center's exterior walls. This collaboration involved a Romanian NGO and the Romanian Culture Institute. After an initial inspection on Friday, the artists returned to start their work on Saturday and throughout the weekend. Given their need for access to the Center, we ended up spending the entire weekend assisting them, even on Sunday.

It was an incredibly eventful week that marked the conclusion of the summer camp and held significant importance for our stay here. Our bond with the center's community grew even stronger, and we received heartfelt and appreciative feedback on our efforts – a truly important validation. We are glad to have played a part in this project thus far.

To find out more about LHI’s work in Moldova, please click here!

Visiting LHI Projects in Ukraine and Jordan Made a Lifetime of Difference to Me

By Mary Carriero, Chairperson, LHI Board of Directors

LHI Board of Directors Chairperson, Mary Carriero (center in sunglasses), traveled with members of the LHI crew to Jordan and Ukraine to check in on our operations there.

It was a genuine privilege to accompany Hayley Smith, LHI Founder and Director, and Walker Frahm, LHI COO, on a recent trip to visit LHI’s programs in Jordan and Ukraine. In both countries, the needs LHI is addressing are visible, raw and immediate.

While in Jordan, Mary (pictured in a pink hat) helped inspect each goat to be distributed.

On our first stop, Jordan, I immediately saw how desperately the goats we distribute are needed by Syrian refugee families. Goats are in such demand because owning goats so significantly improves quality of life for Syrian refugees in Jordan. In tents and homes, we were offered milk, yogurt and cheese that had all come from the goats. A family spoke of saving the money they earned from selling goat dairy products to pay for surgery needed for their young son’s eye. These are refugee families that have lived in camps for 10+ years. For them, goats are part of a path to a better, sustainable future.

When we arrived in Ukraine, I reflected that appearances can be deceiving. On the surface, Lviv resembles any number of other beautiful, old European cities. But a few weeks before we visited, Lviv was directly attacked by Russian shelling. When we checked into our hotel, we were told the hours for breakfast, the location of the hotel restaurant—and the location of the hotel bomb shelter.

Ongoing attacks force ordinary Ukrainians to make tough choices. Hayley and I were with one of our partners as she dropped her daughter off to stay with family outside of Lviv—she considered it safer than having her daughter with her in the city. Another partner, whose wife had recently given birth, spoke of women in labor at the local hospital needing to be moved to the basement for safety during the attack—and that is where some women gave birth. And, on our bus out of Ukraine to Poland, we sat behind a young mother and her two young children, all in tears as they said goodbye to their father. He, like most Ukrainian men between the ages of 18 and 60, cannot legally leave the country because of a general mobilization order.

Mary (left) visited the LHI Women’s Shelter in Ukraine with LHI Founder and Director Hayley Smith and LHI COO Walker Frahm.

The psychological and physical impact of the ongoing war across the whole of Ukraine’s population is enormous. But LHI is making a real difference in the lives of Ukrainians via services such as food distribution to internally displaced persons (IDPs), psychological support programs, and a shelter providing housing for those needing assistance.

One consistent element in both Jordan and Ukraine was the complete commitment, dedication, and generosity of our local teams. As I met with members of these groups in person, I saw first-hand the strengths of LHI’s model of utilizing locals to get the work done. Each team is intimately familiar with, and personally involved in, assessing needs and providing aid. Our local teams work creatively, collaboratively, and tirelessly to provide solutions that are tailored to these needs, emphasizing stability and sustainability. On a personal level, each group went out of their way to welcome our team with meals, fellowship and smiles.

Mary helped prepare food boxes for distribution to displaced families in Ukraine.

I can’t close this note without touching on the laughter and communion that provide moments of joy throughout this trip. Whether it was sharing underground dining, a theme that ran throughout the trip (we ate in a cave, a WWII bunker and the basement shelter), or the many hours spent in a bus twilight zone (if you know, you know), or desperately seeking 30 Polish groszy (to be able to use the bathroom in the aforementioned twilight zone), this was a group of people who were able to find the humor in everything. When the situations you are witnessing can be so intense, laughter becomes a true gift.

Mary (left) shares a meal with LHI Founder and Director Hayley (2nd from left) and the rest of the LHI crew at the LHI Women’s Shelter in Ukraine.

This trip made a lifetime of difference to me. The key takeaway I came home with is how directly impactful LHI’s work is. I don’t think anyone can have this experience without coming away with a tremendous sense of pride in all that the entire LHI team is doing and has accomplished.

Thank you LHI!