Ivanova Family
From: Bakhmut, Donetsk region
Family member: Olha (68)

Finding Stability After Multiple Relocations

On May 25, 2022, Olha Ivanova left Bakhmut as the city was being bombed and civilians were dying. She evacuated to Dobre village in Kirovohrad region before relocating to Vyshhorod. Later, she learned about a modular town in Brovary, where she was provided with housing. After discovering the Hansen Ukrainian Mission charity, she registered for housing. In October 2023, she moved to Miracle Village.

Her home in Bakhmut was completely destroyed during the fierce battle for the city, leaving nothing for her to return to after decades of building her life there.

“I like it in Miracle Village,” Olha shares. “I am provided with everything necessary here: household appliances, furniture, and amenities. We have medical care and psychologists. We engage in gardening and are grateful to Hansen and the administration for everything.”

After experiencing multiple relocations across Ukraine and the complete destruction of her home, Olha has found not only safety but also stability and a supportive community that has allowed her to focus on healing and rebuilding her life rather than basic survival. The opportunity to engage in gardening provides a meaningful connection to the productive life she led before the war disrupted everything.