Mariia Krutko

Resident of Senior Chudo Village
Date of Settlement: March 18, 2025
Apartment: 7B 2a

Family Members:

• Mariia Vasylivna Krutko, 87 years old (born January 7, 1938). Former kindergarten teacher.

Previous City:

Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast

Life Before the War:

I have lived in Pokrovsk since 1947. My life was deeply connected to family, home, and community. For 37 years, I dedicated myself to working as a kindergarten teacher at a local mine, a job I loved and that provided a good life. After retirement, my husband and I tended to our garden and orchard, growing fruits and vegetables. I also looked after my parents' house—a solid German-built home that had sheltered our family since the post-war years. My joy came from simple things: helping others, caring for my home, enjoying nature, and being part of my beloved city. It was a peaceful, rooted life.

Survival and Escape After the War Began:

When the war began, I was in my parents' house near the railway. I saw the military movements and understood things were dire. Shelling became constant. I held on, caring for my seriously ill husband until he passed away—a loss that shattered my world. One day, while I was out fetching water, the house was partially destroyed by shelling. I continued living there, even when military installations appeared in my own garden. The fear became unbearable. I fled to a local church community for shelter. Living there was extremely hard, with no proper facilities. The pastor urged us to evacuate. Eventually, with the help of volunteers, I was taken to Dnipro.

Life Before Senior Chudo Village:

After arriving in Dnipro, I was placed in a hotel by a man named Leonid. While I received some humanitarian aid and consultations there, the conditions were temporary and uncertain. My own home was gone, and I had lost the strength to fight alone. I felt completely vulnerable and longed for a safe, permanent place.

Impressions of Senior Chudo Village:

Coming here felt like a miracle. After a short stay in hospice care, I was handed the keys to my own apartment—it was an incredible moment. This place is cozy, calm, and filled with care from every staff member and administrator. For the first time in a long while, I feel safe and looked after.

Health Condition:

I have age-related health changes and problems with my knee. Thanks to support, I was able to undergo necessary eye surgery. I do not currently require psychological help.

Future Plans and Goals:

My goal for this year is to adapt, find peace, and settle into my new life here.

Advice to the Younger Generation:

“Always be grateful for the kindness shown to you. Remember that good deeds are always rewarded. Even when it’s hard to do good, you must still do it. When I left my home, I distributed all my surviving clothes, dishes, and belongings to people in need.”

Thoughts on Dell Loy Hansen’s Mission:

I may not fully understand the motivations behind this mission, but I am endlessly grateful for the care and guardianship provided to elderly people. It is an incredible fortune to find myself in this village and no longer have to worry about my future.

Message from an Elderly Displaced Person:

The most critical need for people like me is stable, permanent housing. The constant fear of ending up on the street again is a heavy burden.

How I Can Contribute to the Community:

For now, I am focused on adapting. I find everything here to be wonderful and am deeply thankful.