Dear sponsor,
My name is Zakhar. I am 11 years old. I am in the sixth grade. I go to school in a neighboring village by school bus. I live with my mother, father, older brother and grandmother in a picturesque village. I have a friend Matvii, with whom we walk and play football. I also like to play football with my brother Orest. My mother cooks very well. I like eating dumplings the most. When I grow up, I dream of becoming a football player. Dear future sponsor, thank you for wanting to help me and my family. It would be very interesting for me to receive a letter from you.
Sincerely,
Zakhar
Caseworker’s Comments:
Zakhar embodies kindness and affection, his gentle nature an example of warmth and compassion in his family’s life. Known for his friendly demeanor and calm disposition, Zakhar eagerly lends a helping hand around the house, especially in light of his father’s dire health challenges. From tidying his room to assisting with household chores like washing dishes, Zakhar’s thoughtful gestures are a testament to his caring heart.
Despite the hardships imposed by poverty, Zakhar remains resilient, his love for life undiminished by adversity. Six years ago, tragedy struck when his father suffered a devastating accident, leaving him with a traumatic brain injury that rendered him unable to speak or swallow properly. Through it all, Zakhar’s mother, Oksana, has been a pillar of strength, tirelessly caring for her husband and shouldering the financial burden of his treatment. Currently employed as a chef, she earns a small salary, which is largely allocated towards covering her husband’s medical expenses. In addition, Zakhar’s grandmother has assumed the responsibility of supporting the family financially.
The family’s home holds both memories and aspirations for a brighter future. Yet, it remains unfinished, a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges they face. Zakhar, along with his brother and mother, navigate their shared space with grace and unity, supported by the loving presence of their grandmother, who lives nearby.
Their house, though modest, is a sanctuary of safety and love. While repairs are underway to expand their living quarters, their immediate concern lies in securing the necessary funds for their father’s ongoing treatment. For Zakhar and his family, the ultimate goal is simple yet profound: to restore their father’s health and complete the renovation of their home, ensuring that each member has their own space to thrive. In the face of adversity, Zakhar’s family remains resilient and united, bound together by love and determination. With unwavering support from their community and the guiding light of Zakhar’s compassionate spirit, they persevere, holding onto hope for a brighter tomorrow.
