Storchak Family
From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family members: Anatoliy (64) and Mariia (70)

From Wounded to Renewed Hope

The war began for the Storchak family with a phone call from Anatoliy’s boss: “We’re not coming to work.” By April, their nine-story apartment building had been hit multiple times by artillery and rockets. Life became extremely difficult without water, electricity, or gas supply, but most importantly, it was life-threatening to remain.

The couple relocated to their dacha (summer cottage), but tragedy struck when Mariia received shrapnel wounds. They were evacuated to Torchyn, where she underwent surgery. The Storchaks remained there, renting accommodation while recovering from this traumatic experience.

Their two-room apartment in Bakhmut was destroyed during the intense battle for the city, leaving them with nothing to return to.

“From the first moment, we were impressed by the housing and the kind, welcoming attitude toward us,” shares Anatoliy. “The living conditions and furnishings are of very high quality. We’re slowly working on setting up our terrace and tending to our small garden plot.”

Finding purpose in his new community, Anatoliy volunteers with the “Village Security” group, helping to ensure the safety of their newfound sanctuary. After experiencing the trauma of war, injury, and displacement, the elderly couple has found stability and purpose in their new community.