Courageous Volunteers Bring the Love of Christ to Kherson
Every week, a small team of courageous volunteers risks their lives to bring food, sweets, and hope to the people of Kherson, Ukraine. Led by Platon, a pastor from a small church in the Odesa region, the team travels four and a half hours to reach residents who remain in this war-torn city.
Kherson endured eight months of Russian occupation in 2022. Although the city was liberated, the struggle to protect its people and their homes continues every day. Russian forces still occupy villages on the right bank of the Dnieper River, while Kherson itself faces relentless shelling and drone attacks. Kherson is on the front line.
Daily life is incredibly dangerous. People often travel on foot or by bicycle because drones constantly patrol overhead for cars and easy to see moving vehicles. Everyone must remain alert, ready to take cover beneath a tree or run into a shelter when danger approaches.
Creating a Safe Place for Children
During one of his visits to Kherson, military chaplain Platon met Nastya (on the right is Platon, Nastya next to him), a young woman determined to help children whose lives have been devastated by war.
With a grant, Nastya began transforming unfinished basement spaces in a high-rise apartment building into welcoming and safe places where children could gather, play games, and take part in activities.
Russia’s war has robbed Ukraine’s children of so much of the happy childhood they deserve. But thankfully, people like Nastya refuse to give up on them. They are finding creative ways to bring children together, offer comfort, and restore a sense of normal life.
We recently met Nastya ourselves through a video call. She explained that she took eleven unfinished rooms in the high-rise basement and renovated them into multipurpose spaces. Each room serves a different purpose, giving children and families opportunities to gather, participate in activities, and find refuge from the dangers outside.
These rooms also serve as temporary shelters for people seeking protection from the daily attacks.
Helping Children Experience the Joy of Christmas
During our conversation, Nastya asked if we could help purchase two gas heater to keep two of the basement rooms warm, along with an inexpensive Christmas tree and decorations.
Thanks to our sponsors’ generosity, we have the opportunity to make this happen!
Soon, children will be able to gather in two warm, welcoming rooms where they can play together, socialize, jump on small trampolines, and enjoy the simple happiness of being with other children.
For these youngsters, something as ordinary as a decorated Christmas tree, a warm room, or an afternoon playing with friends can mean so much. These small gifts help restore a little of the childhood that war has stolen from them.
Your generosity makes it possible for people like Nastya and Platon to continue serving their fellow Ukrainians. Through their courage, compassion, and faith, they are bringing practical assistance and the love of Christ to people living under extraordinary circumstances.
Thank you for helping us bring warmth, hope, and Christmas joy to Ukraine’s children.
