Fleeing War and Finding Hope Through The Salvation Army

Life was very different for Yana Chupylka and her family when they lived in Ukraine three years ago. Most days, part of a common routine was to take cover in their building’s basement as air raid sirens rang in the streets.

Yana’s family spent that first year of the war in their home country; however, after a helicopter crashed behind their apartment complex, they decided that moving to Canada was the best decision for their children’s future.

“We chose Canada because it is a country of immigrants. They take in people, and they love people,” Yana says.

“It’s hard to start over when you have no friends, English, money or a job.”

Initially, Yana and her two children arrived in Winnipeg. With little English, it was tough for Yana to find a job that would pay her enough to maintain her family. Through Facebook, she connected with The Salvation Army in Fort Frances, Ont. They told her they could help her, and she decided to move there.

As soon as she arrived in Fort Frances, Yana got all the assistance she needed.

“They helped by referring me to subsidized housing,” Yana shares. “They gave me clothes, food and toys for the kids. I was really happy because everything is so expensive and it’s hard to start over when you have no friends, English, money or a job.”

As Yana and her family got settled things got better. Yana’s English is great now and she works as a hairstylist just like she did back in Ukraine. Her children like their new home, and they are always happy to receive treats from The Salvation Army.

“Immigrant life is not easy, but when you are around nice people and have nice support, it makes you feel good.”

“My kids get excited every month when I come back from the food bank,” Yana says.

Adjusting to life in Canada was challenging, but Yana believes it paid off. She is thankful for the support she received from The Salvation Army.

“Immigrant life is not easy, but when you are around nice people and have nice support, it makes you feel good,” Yana adds. “I am lucky.”

Yana says that if she hadn’t received assistance from the Army, she likely would have been forced to move back to Ukraine, and once again face a war that seems to have no end.

“I think The Salvation Army is the best organization. With very kind and nice people.”

By Juan Romero