January completed the formal support for the Bryiovskyi family.  Over these last 2 years, more than 300 people from St Julie’s and St Peter’s donated their, time, talent and treasure enabling the family to become independent.

While they await the decision on their final immigration status, we want to share with you an answer they recently gave for one question on their immigration paperwork. It explains their transition to the US in their own words.

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“When we arrived in the USA, something happened that turned our consciousness upside down. Very soon Americans appeared in our life — completely strange people who began to support us. They helped us settle in, brought things, food, money, just supported us with a word. For us, it was a shock. In Ukraine, we were used to expecting only condemnation, envy, or a stone in the back from society. And here, in America, we understood for the first time what true democracy and safety are. We saw what a society is where you are respected regardless of your faith, where people are ready to help, not harm. This contrast showed us that we will never be able to feel at home in Ukraine, where intolerance reigns. “

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We were the “Americans” that appeared in their lives. Over the last 2 years we have helped them to create a safe place for themselves and their children.

We are happy to say that the family has successfully achieved independence.

• Vitalii continues to work as a truck mechanic and has been promoted to supervisor

• Daniel (10 y/o) and Arthur (8 y/o) are doing well in school, participating in many sports and singing in their church choir

• Susanna (5 y/o) is in pre-school this year

• Nadiia takes care of the household, sings in the choir at church and teaches Sunday school.

• A major happiness for them was to welcome their new daughter, Adele into the world this past October!

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The Bryiovskyis - “Thanks to everyone for giving us this new life and we love you all very much.”

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God Bless all of you! 

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UWC Leadership Team – Terry Flanagan, Dean Morrison & Chris Vacca

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Circle Members – Cheryle Koberna, Jen Farrell, Mike Fagan, Lisa Stelmarski, Ed Kollin, Ceil Morrison, and Beth Paoloni

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In 2024 UWC received Bishop A J Quinn Award for Social Justice

We truly gave them a “Hand Up not a Hand Out”

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