Kalinski Family
From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family members: Leonid (67) and Lidiia (66)

From Rural Life to New Community

The Kalinski couple lived in Yakovlivka village near Bakhmut until they were forced to evacuate on May 20, 2022, as Russian forces advanced through Donetsk region. They initially rented housing in a village before relocating to a modular town in Brovary.

Representatives from the “Hansen Ukrainian Mission” foundation informed them about the construction of a village for elderly people. They completed an application for housing, and on October 20, 2023, they received a small house in Miracle Village. Their original home was destroyed during the fighting, leaving nothing for them to return to.

“We are very grateful for the comfortable accommodation in the village,” shares Lidiia. “Here we have met people who have become our family; we communicate well and have found peace. We express our gratitude to all the people involved in creating this truly 'Miracle Village.'”

Both spouses have found meaningful roles in their new community. Leonid is employed as a tractor driver in the village, also tending to lawns and volunteering with the carpentry group. Lidiia volunteers in the kitchen and works as a cleaner. After losing their rural home, they have not only found safety but also purpose and community that have helped them rebuild their lives and find peace amid the ongoing conflict.