It’s not just words of gratitude — it’s a story of lives saved
When Oksana and her family applied through USPUK, they were looking for safety and hope.
With the support of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, USPUK helped them connect with a kind host family in the UK who opened their home and hearts. What began as a moment of fear has turned into a story of resilience, care, and a new beginning.
In Oksana’s own words:
When the full-scale war began, Oksana and her family continued to live in Sumy region, hoping the situation would improve. But one day, a missile struck just five kilometres from their home. “It seemed far,” Oksana recalls, “but our windows flew open from the blast. I took my phone and filled out the form on USPUK’s website. It felt like throwing a message into the ocean.”
At that moment, she knew very little about life in the UK — the challenges, the language barrier, or how her family would adapt. But one thought guided her decision: to protect her son.
“Children are the most important thing in life,” she says. “I know this too well because I already lost my eldest son...”
Soon after, USPUK matched Oksana’s family with kind sponsors in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
“We didn’t hesitate for a moment,” she remembers. “It was a big step, but we knew it was the right one.”
Oksana’s younger son, Artem, was diagnosed with autism — something that made life and social adaptation challenging back home in Ukraine. Moving to a new country, with a new language and culture, was a major change. Yet, the family found support and kindness at every step.
“Artem is my hero,” Oksana says with a smile. “He goes to school every day with joy and also attends different activities. Seeing him happy and safe means everything to me.”
Nearly a year later, the family still lives with their UK sponsors — people Oksana calls “those with the biggest hearts.”
“Our lives have changed completely,” she says. “Here in England, I feel supported by everyone around me. I’m happy because my child is safe.”
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.
“Thank you, USPUK, for this wonderful chance and for the opportunity to keep living,” she says.
If you'd like to help more families like this one, please consider supporting us at uspuk.org/donate
You can make a difference
At USPUK, we support not only Ukrainian families on their journey to the UK but also the generous hosts who open their homes to them. From the moment they register on our website throughout their hosting experience, we are here to help.
If you’d like to help someone on their journey to a new beginning, consider becoming a host today. Visit our Become a Host page to learn more.