The Silenok Family

Apartment 21 2a, moved in on May 19, 2025

Halyna Pavlivna Silenok (74) and Mykola Mykolaiovych Silenok (71) arrived at Senior Chudo Village from the village of Veletenske, Kherson region.

Halyna worked as an accountant for an agricultural enterprise, and Mykola was a mechanic. They lived in their village for over 50 years, raising livestock — 20 goats, chickens, ducks, geese — and farming 2.5 hectares of land. They found joy in the simple life: in their work, in family gatherings, and in time spent with their children and granddaughter. Before the war, they dreamed of developing a small cheese production business using their goats' milk.

On February 24, 2022, the war reached their doorstep — literally. Their daughter arrived with her family from Kherson to warn them. Shelling soon followed. By November 2024, they were forced to flee their home, which has since been destroyed.

“We lost everything — our land, our home, our way of life. But we are thankful to have survived.”

Temporarily, they stayed with their daughter in Odesa, living in a rented room at a settlement called “Seventh Heaven.”Adapting was difficult, especially after Halyna suffered a leg injury that required surgery. The loss of their home and routine left them feeling disoriented and dependent.

When they received the call from the Chudo Foundation, it felt like light breaking through the darkness.

“We cried with gratitude. This move is our chance for peace, for a new beginning. Here, everything is clean, organized, and kind. It feels like an oasis.”

Now, they feel safe, surrounded by people who have also endured much. What they value most is the sense of dignity, care, and humanity.