From Kharkiv to Chișinău: Valeriu and Olga’s Journey to a New Beginning in Moldova

Valeriu and Olga lived in Kharkiv, a city at the epicenter of a new Russian offensive in 2024. On May 10, as Russian troops advanced toward their city, their lives changed radically. With each passing day, the sound of explosions grew louder, and reports of attacks on residential buildings, including iconic structures like Derzhprom, underscored the imminent danger. Frequent bombings severely damaged water and power networks, making access to basic resources increasingly uncertain.

On June 1, Olga was forced to seek shelter underground after an attack on their neighborhood destroyed the nearby hospital. The realization that safety was no longer possible led them to make a difficult decision. They resolved to leave Kharkiv and head to Moldova, where they hoped to find refuge and rebuild their lives.

Upon arriving in Moldova, the “Safe Space” office at Chișinău Station provided them with the essential support they needed, facilitating housing, transportation, and psychological assistance. Olga required help to overcome the anxiety she had accumulated due to the conflict, and psychological counseling was crucial in helping her find inner peace again. Involvement in creative and occupational activities helped her regain confidence, learning new skills from drawing and embroidery to crafting toys. Meanwhile, Valeriu found work at a music high school, where he repaired and tuned pianos. His work brought him immense satisfaction, offering a renewed sense of purpose and stability.

Now, Valeriu and Olga live with gratitude for the support they received from “Safe Space” at Chișinău Station and from those who helped them rebuild their lives from scratch in a foreign country. Despite losses and challenges, they feel stronger and more optimistic, ready to embrace their new life.

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