Parfionova Family
From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family member: Natalia (65)

Rebuilding Life With Two Suitcases

Natalia Parfionova evacuated from Bakhmut to Khmelnytskyi when the war intensified. Initially, she stayed with acquaintances who later helped her rent accommodation and partially covered her expenses. “I don’t know where I would live or how I would survive if not for the Hansen housing project,” Natalia confesses. “I am immensely grateful to everyone who helped me settle in this 'Miracle Village.'”

Her home in Bakhmut was destroyed during the fierce battle for the city, leaving nothing for her to return to.

“I evacuated from Bakhmut with just two suitcases,” Natalia shares. “After the war began and I lost my home, these are the best living conditions I could have imagined. The village administration tries to shield us from the horrors of war by addressing our material problems, for which I am endlessly thankful. I try not to lose self-respect, to value myself, and to recognize the value of other people. I hope I won’t have to look for other housing.”

Finding purpose in her new community, Natalia volunteers with the “Cleanliness and Order” group, helping maintain the village that has given her a new beginning. After losing everything and facing profound uncertainty, she has found not only shelter but dignity and community in her new home.