Practical Assistance Gives Hope to Ukrainian Refugees

When Julia and her husband fled the war in Ukraine, they came to Canada for peace and safety. Today they are grateful for support received from The Salvation Army and the opportunity for a fresh start.

“With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it was a priority for my family to think and act fast to bring my parents to Canada,” says Eugen, Julia’s son. “We didn’t know how quickly the situation would escalate.”

“We just wanted to live.”

Five days before roadblocks were set up at all entrances to their city, Julia and her husband arrived in Canada.

“Material things weren’t a concern at all,” Julia says. “We just wanted to live.”

With his parents now living in Ontario, Eugen had more than his family of five to feed. He needed practical help and googled food banks. He was relieved to know that The Salvation Army Community and Family Services helped people in any situation.

Eugen and Julia learn of the Army’s practical support

“Without support from The Salvation Army, I don’t know what I would have done,” says Eugen.

While Eugen chose his non-perishable and fresh food items at the food bank, Julia wept as she spoke of her homeland.

“I am so glad I could come here,” she says. “So many people in Ukraine live in basements with no opportunity for escape. They have no hope and don’t know day by day how they will survive.”

“The Salvation Army gave great hope to our family.”

“When my parents arrived at our home, we had spent all our savings on getting them here,” says Eugen. “It was difficult for us to provide food and basic needs for us all. The Salvation Army gave great hope to our family.”

By Linda Leigh