Shapovalovy Family

From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family members: Valeriy (73) and Liudmyla (72)

From Defenders to Displaced: A Family’s Journey

In August 2022, the situation in Bakhmut became untenable for the Shapovalovy family. The shelling intensified, approaching residential buildings, while electricity, water, gas, and communications were cut off. As local and regional authorities urged immediate evacuation, Valeriy, who served as the head of their housing association, was among the last to leave their building, feeling responsible for others in his community.

Volunteers transported the elderly couple to Dnipro, where they rented an apartment while seeking more permanent solutions. Through an online application, they unexpectedly received housing in Miracle Village. Their son joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces as a volunteer in April 2022 and continues to defend the country while his parents found safety.

The Shapovalovys' home in Bakhmut was destroyed during the fierce battle for the city, leaving them with nothing to return to.

“Life in Miracle Village has changed for the better,” Valeriy shares. “The living conditions are very comfortable and of the highest quality. I’ve been able to continue my medical treatment and have noticed improvements in my health. The constant support and assistance from social workers has significantly improved our quality of life.”

With his professional background in building maintenance, Valeriy hopes to contribute his expertise to help maintain their new community, finding purpose in his skills despite the trauma of displacement and the ongoing worry for their son serving in the military.