When war erupted in Ukraine over three years ago, Vasil was in a hospital bed recovering from a stroke. The doctors, not knowing what was going to happen, told him to go home. The front line of fighting crept toward Vasil and Natalia’s small village, and they finally fled, fearing for their safety.
Vasil and Natalia now live in a safe area of Ukraine, but struggles still pursue them. Natalia told a staff member, “It’s safe here, but I cannot work. I need to stay at home and care for my husband. We can’t leave him alone.” Even though Vasil receives a monthly pension, most of it goes to pay for his medicines since he still faces poor health.
Getting through the harsh Ukrainian winters is another hurdle. Some mornings, their indoor temperature hovered around 53°F. They were able to buy some wood for heating, but it cost over a month’s pension and still wasn’t enough for the winter.
Through all this difficulty—struggling with health issues, leaving behind the church they loved, and not having money to get treatments for their daughter who has eye problems—Vasil and Natalia are still trusting God. They are able to attend church again, where they have received food through the help of CAM. Natalia voiced her thoughts: “We’ve had some hard times, but what can you do? If it wasn’t for God, we would be [all mixed up].”
Many Ukrainians don’t personally know the source of everlasting strength and peace. Uncertainty about the future, loss of houses and belongings, and grief over loved ones who are dead or missing create a mental strain on these war-weary people. As of early 2025, 3.7 million Ukrainians are displaced within the country, and more than 12 million need humanitarian aid (source: UNHCR).
CAM is aiding weary Ukrainians by supplying churches with resources to help such people. Most of the aid is food and firewood, which helps free their money for other needs. Items such as hygiene kits, adult briefs, soap, comforters, and clothing are also important to help relieve their suffering. Bibles and Christian literature bring hope and encouragement and point Ukrainians to Jesus.
“We sincerely appreciate your sacrifice, love, and care,” said one church. “Your work motivates us to become more self-sacrificing and show love not only in words, but also in deed.”
