“I lived in Mariupol, Ukraine until the war started. I was almost 17 and leaving Ukraine for Ireland was hard. I am here without my family. It wasn’t easy because my language wasn’t perfect and there was a lot I didn’t understand. With time, it is getting better. I have an interview this afternoon at school to study business marketing and management.

I know the rest of the world doesn’t understand this situation between Ukraine and Russia. I keep trying to live my life the best I can. I hope to return to Ukraine when it is quiet and my family can be together.”

Adaria
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Ireland has taken in many Ukrainian women and children and is housing them in local homes and motels. The small village we stayed in was trying hard to take good care of these war refugees. One man said Ukraine is the front line and fighting for all of Europe; the Irish are thankful for this and are happy to help the Ukrainians who flee. In the mornings, volunteers turn the soccer field into a fun zone for young kids with art and games. The Ukrainians are grateful to the Irish, but they want to go back to their homes.