A Journey of Hope

Liudmyla Krasikova (69), a skilled painter and plasterer, had lived a life deeply rooted in the Donbas region. Originally from Soledar, she had made Bakhmut her home, sharing a small apartment with her daughter and finding joy in tending their garden.

War shattered her carefully constructed world. On September 3, 2022, volunteers evacuated her from the increasingly dangerous city. The journey was treacherous—every route primed with danger, every mile a testament to human resilience. Initially reluctant to leave, she was finally convinced by the escalating threats.

Displaced to a village near Dnipro, Liudmyla faced the challenges of survival. Buying firewood, relying on local administration’s support, she navigated uncertainty with quiet determination. Her daughter helped her complete the housing application, a small beacon of hope.

The turning point came on her birthday—an unexpected call offering her a new home. On December 16, 2024, she moved into Senior Chudo Village’s apartment 14.2B, bringing her beloved cat from Bakhmut.

Battling hypertension and the emotional toll of displacement, Liudmyla found more than just housing. She found a “earthly paradise, ” with flowers and land—her long-held dream.

Her wisdom for younger generations is profound: “Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. There are people ready to support you in difficult moments. Care for your family—they are your greatest support.”

To Dell Loy Hansen, she offers heartfelt gratitude: “This incredible program saved us from being on the street in the hardest period of our lives. It’s miraculous that people like you exist.”

Her greatest hope now is simple—to live and wait for peace.