Twice — in the most literal sense — the USPUK team saved my nervous system and my mental health by providing safety. The first time, by playing a vital role in my personal life and helping unite our family. The second time, by taking us out of a loud, frightening Kyiv and bringing us to my husband — and our daughter’s father.

In recent months, we were going to sleep and waking up to the sound of drones — living in constant fear and tension. Today “We welcomed the New Year in a new home — without fear, without panic, and together as a family.”

I am endlessly grateful to our sponsors for their care, patience, and kindness. Because of them, we felt that even far from home, you can still be safe — and you don’t have to face everything alone.

“Children are the most important thing in life,” she says. “I know this too well because I already lost my eldest son...” Oksana’s story is one of courage, love, and resilience — a reminder of how one decision, and one connection, can change a family’s future.

Today, my son and I live in Stafford with our wonderful host family. Their kindness and warmth have given us not just shelter but comfort, friendship, and the support we so badly needed. They have welcomed both of us and my unborn baby into their family, and for that I will always be thankful.

When news of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine broke in 2022, my wife and I felt we couldn’t just stand by. We wanted to live out our Christian faith in a practical way and use what we had to help.

In May, Svetlana and her 9-year-old son Dmytryk made the brave decision to leave Ukraine. Thanks to kindness of hosts Katherine and Martin in Birmingham — Dmytryk now plays football in the park instead of sheltering in basements.

USPUK was with us every step of the way — advising, supporting, and taking action. Now, at last, our whole family is safe, under one roof, in a new country, with a new life and future ahead of us.

This is one of many examples of how USPUK supports displaced families facing bureaucratic delays, especially when young children are involved.

“If I could go back in time and choose new sponsors, I would choose them again without question. They’re the best sponsors in all of England. Words, emotions — even a lifetime — wouldn’t be enough to thank them.”

A Ukrainian couple faced months of visa delays trying to reunite with their adopted daughter — until USPUK stepped in to help resolve the case and bring their family together.