Klipenko Family
From: Illinka village, Donetsk region
Family members: Valentyna (64) and Oleksandr (66)

Finding Community After Artillery Bombardment

The Klipenko couple lived in their native village under artillery bombardment until March 2022, when they relocated to Dnipropetrovsk region seeking safety. “Thanks to support during such a difficult time and the kind, sincere heart of the founder of Miracle Village and its administration, we received an apartment,” shares Valentyna with gratitude.

Their home in Illinka was destroyed during the fighting, leaving nothing for them to return to after decades of village life.

“We arrived in poor psychological condition, but in the village, we received medical assistance and rehabilitation,” Oleksandr explains. “We met new friends and encountered fellow villagers from our region. There’s such a friendly atmosphere here that everything else is forgotten.”

Both spouses have found purpose in their new community by joining the volunteer security group, where they are responsible for the automated lawn irrigation system. “We actively participate in various works to improve and help our village prosper,” they add. After living under bombardment and experiencing displacement, the couple has found not only safety but also a renewed sense of purpose and community that has helped them heal from their trauma.