This story of the Chentsov family is an example of how perseverance, the support of loved ones, and the help of compassionate people can help overcome even the most difficult trials. Despite all the difficulties, their big move became a story of success, new opportunities, and hope.
On March 26, 2023, my life and the life of my family, changed radically—I moved to Canada with my sons. It was not an easy decision. I could tell you for a long time about the feelings we experienced when we left our relatives, loved ones, and our home. However, this story is not about that. This story is about help… incredible people with big hearts, about humanity, and sincerity. It’s about those who opened their home and welcomed us, strangers and unfamiliar Ukrainians, into their lives here in Canada.
I don’t remember how I came across the organization Grassroots. While I was still in Ukraine, already with plane tickets in hand, I was searching for any information or organization to help me understand where I should go after arriving in Toronto. Two weeks before my flight, I received an email from a Grassroots volunteer offering to connect me with a host family from the small town of Roseville in Waterloo Region. Next was an online meeting with the couple, Alex and Deb Bestfagher, who assured us that they would host us in their guest house.
We arrived at night. Friends met us and took us to Roseville. The house was open, and the light was on. They were waiting for us! When we entered the house, I could not hold back the tears. In the living room, there was a yellow-blue bouquet and a "Welcome to Canada" card on the table. The refrigerator was stocked with all the necessary products for the first few days. Everything we needed was there.
Our meeting took place the next day. We greeted each other, got to know one another, and hugged as if we were family. They are incredibly sincere and kind people. They became a family to us. We were not just their guests; we became part of their family.
Dean and Rainer Mueller are Grassroots volunteers—their support is invaluable to my family. Dean helped me with my job search, and edited and sent my resume. When we finally moved into a rented house, they helped us set up our new home. They were so happy for each of our successes and were always there when we needed support. They became dear friends to us.
The support of the local community and volunteers has been an important source of inspiration and strength for us. Despite all the difficulties, over time we found our place in our new community. We learned the language, I found a job, the children enrolled in school, and we gradually integrated into Canadian society. Adaptation became easier with each passing month. We felt more confident. All these sensitive and kind volunteers became real angels for us newcomers.
Chentsova Lyudmila - Ukrainian in Canada.
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