Simenchuk Family
From: Siversk, Donetsk region
Family member: Raisa (66)

From Basement to New Beginnings

The war dramatically changed life for Raisa Simenchuk when fighting reached her hometown of Siversk in Donetsk region. For six long months, she survived in a basement shelter as combat raged above. Eventually, she was evacuated to Dnipro, later moving to an elderly care facility in Kodaky.

Raisa's journey continued as she relocated to a modular town in Vasylkiv. While there, she completed an application for more permanent housing, and on October 20th, she received accommodation in Miracle Village. Her original home in Siversk was destroyed during the fighting, leaving nothing for her to return to.

"My life has changed for the better; I feel comfortable and cozy here," Raisa shares with gratitude. "Thank you to everyone for their care."

Finding purpose in her new community, Raisa helps in the dining hall at Miracle Village and volunteers with the "Support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine" group. After spending half a year sheltering in a basement and experiencing multiple relocations, she has found stability, community, and ways to contribute meaningfully despite the trauma of displacement.