Ukrainian pastors ask Valley for help to assist refugees
Two Ukrainian pastors on a mission to help refugees are back in the desert. News Channel 3 and CBS Local 3 first met them not long after the conflict along the Russian border started.
Now a year later, their international message of hope is inspiring a local charity to help.
“It’s a humanitarian crisis,” said Maxim Belousov.
Maxim and Julia Belousov are pastors in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Dnepropetrovsk, about 100 miles west of the conflict between pro-Russian rebels and Ukrainian nationals
“Within the last year, I would say things have gotten better,” said Maxim Belousov.
Their charity, ‘Response Foundation Ukraine,’ worked to help some of the million refugees forced to flee their homes. Many of them fled with just the clothes on their backs.
“They were in so much fear,” said Julia Belousov.
“They had to leave everything behind and now they live in a strange city. Not all of them were able to find jobs, they have to pay rent, they have to buy food,” said Maxim Belousov.
The Belousovs want to bring normalcy any way they can.
“We took them to the store, bought school outfits, backpacks, every school supplies that they need and they were so thankful. When you see these people and somehow you can bring (them) hope, it really brings joy to your heart,” said Julia Belousov.
However, they can’t do it alone. “Even one person can do something for someone,” said Maxim Belousov.
This is the couple’s second trip to the Palm to Pines Rotary Club to share what’s happening in Ukraine and ask for support.
“It’s exciting to see what we can do now with a link to some friends in Ukraine,” said Rotarian Charles Riggs.
Since February’s ceasefire, the fighting slowed, but Maxim Belousov said mine fields in the eastern part are still a threat.
“As for the War Zone, it’s still there,” said Belousov.
Even in the regions not touched by war, winter is still on its way and heating prices have skyrocketed.
“Our propane gas price grew 7 times compared to the west here, which makes it very challenging for families for their gas bills,” said Belousov. Ukraine’s propane is imported from Russia.
“The Ukraine issues are large too, but small groups of people banning together make a large effort and multiply what can be done,” said Riggs.
“I always have hope,” said Belousov.
Maxim and Julia Belousov have partnered with the U.S non-profit ‘In Matter of the Heart/Ukraine,’ so any donations made by Americans will be tax deductible.
Click here for Response Foundation Ukraine Facebook page.
Checks can be mailed to:
6371 Livingston Ct.
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Payable to “In Matters of the Heart/Ukraine”
Email: Dneprcc@ukr.net
