‘War is far from over’: Ukrainian refugee families get helping hand for holidays

PALM COAST, Fla. — Local nonprofits are teaming up to help two families displaced by Russia’s war on Ukraine.

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Two different Ukrainian refugee families got a surprise on Thursday from Krewe of the 13, a nonprofit known for its trademark pirate costumes.

Uliana Chornopyska and husband Michael Kustryn came to the United States with their three children, ages 5 through 8.

Victoria Vehera and her husband Volodymyr Vehera had to travel through six different countries to escape Ukraine with their five children, ages 6 to 16.

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The families got the news that Krewe of 13 was covering two months of rent and utilities paid for, and new appliances. It’s all part of a partnership with the nonprofit, Ukrainian Project Inc.

“They didn’t know pirates were nice!” joked translator Nadia Wolfe, who volunteers for the Ukrainian Project. “They thought pirates take, not give,” she elaborated.

“We take!” Roger Allen, Captain of Krewe of the 13, quipped back with a smirk. “I mean, we’ll do just about anything to get money for local families.”

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These families are overcome with gratitude that their children get to enjoy Christmas.

“He thanks God, that brought his family to safety,” Wolfe said as she translated for Kustryn, who also expressed his recognition to the Americans he’s encountered for their hospitality.

Still, they can’t help but think of their neighbors back home.

“She’s crying because she’s worried so much about Ukraine,” Wolfe said as she referenced Chornopyska, whose eyes were welling up as she spoke.

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This comes a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked Congress for continued support.

“[Chornopyska] said President Zelenskyy came to remind people in this hectic time and celebration, there is a hectic war that’s going on,” Wolfe explained. “The war is far from over and it’s getting harder and harder.”

You can check out ways to support Krewe of the 13 in their mission to help families HERE.

And also check out Ukrainian Project HERE.

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