Kulyk Family
From: Mykilske village, Donetsk region
Family members: Mykola (69) and Nataliia (65)

From Basement to Community

Before the war, the Kulyk family lived in their own small house just four kilometers from a military unit in Vuhledar. When the offensive began, enemy aircraft started bombing the city and surrounding areas, forcing them to live in their basement for safety. When a “green corridor” was opened for evacuation from Volnovakha, they managed to leave with a column of refugees. Prior to settling in Miracle Village, they lived in Cherkasy in an old small house.

Their home and all farm buildings in Mykilske were destroyed during the fighting, leaving nothing for them to return to after decades of village life.

“After settling in Miracle Village, our life changed for the better,” shares Nataliia. “Wonderful conditions for comfortable living, everything necessary for life, friendly administration, good neighbors. We are now one big family. We are very grateful to Mr. Hansen and his team.”

Both spouses have found purpose in their new community. Mykola volunteers with the Plant Protection group, while Nataliia helps in the dining hall. After enduring life in a basement and multiple relocations, the elderly couple has found not only safety but also purpose and community that have helped them rebuild their lives after losing everything to the war.