Nesterenko Family
From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family member: Natalia (62)

From Work to War to New Beginning

When the war began on February 24, 2022, Natalia Nesterenko was living and working in Bakhmut. As bombing of the city intensified, her children evacuated to Lutsk, while she initially remained at home. When her house was destroyed, she had no choice but to flee to save her life.

In May 2022, Natalia found temporary shelter in a dormitory in Senkevychivka, Volyn region. Later, after submitting an application, she was accepted to Miracle Village. Her home in Bakhmut was completely destroyed during the fierce battle for the city, leaving nothing for her to return to.

“I’m very grateful to Mr. Hansen, and I thank God every day,” Natalia shares with emotion. “I simply found myself in a fairy tale. I have my own room, my own shower and toilet — everything is comfortable. I live with a wonderful neighbor. I’m surrounded by good people. We have a garden. All my dreams have come true.”

Finding purpose in her new community, Natalia volunteers with the group supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces. After losing her home and job, and being separated from her children during the initial invasion, she has found not only safety but also a new sense of purpose and community that has restored her faith in the future.