In the past year and a half, my family's journey has been one of both hope and struggle. We left our home in Ukraine, seven of us, seeking refuge from the relentless grip of war. The Homes for Ukraine program brought us to the UK, and the warmth of the Chemin Neuf community has been our saving grace. The kindness of the British people has touched us deeply, and we are forever grateful for their support during these trying times. We had initially thought the war would subside quickly, allowing us to return home within a few months. Unfortunately, the situation back in Ukraine remains dire, and our responsibility as parents prevents us from risking our children's safety by returning.
The biggest challenge we've faced recently was being asked to leave our current living situation. For over five months, we've been tirelessly searching for new accommodations, applying to over 70 different houses, only to be met with continuous rejections. It has been an incredibly disheartening experience for us all.
Our hope is to provide a safe and stable environment for our children, where they can study and grow without the constant shadow of war looming over them.
The thought of moving into a new property is a beacon of hope for us. Our children, especially our eldest daughter focusing on her GCSEs, and our bright young boys, deserve a space of their own where they can feel secure and at peace. The war has brought so much uncertainty into their lives, and we yearn for stability and comfort for them.
Looking ahead, we hold onto the hope that the war will soon come to an end, and we can return to our homeland. Regardless, we remain committed to providing the best possible life for our children, working diligently to become self-sufficient and ensure their well-being in the years to come.