Ukrainian orphans helped by Sunday People readers dream of returning to their homeland

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Her generosity has so far raised £65,000 which has gone towards helping rescue children from war-ravaged Ukraine and will help with future evacuations

The 52 Ukrainian orphans that Sunday People readers helped rescue are adjusting to their new life in Romania – but dreaming of the day when they can return home.

Her generosity has so far raised £65,000 which has gone towards helping rescue children from war-ravaged Ukraine and will help with future evacuations.

Robert Ion from the charity Hope and Homes for Children is now overseeing their care in Romania and taking the children to local schools.

They had endured a harsh and dangerous 26-hour journey by road and rail after fleeing fighting in Dnipro in eastern Ukraine last month.

Mr Ion said: “The war and leaving her homeland has been extremely stressful for her.

“But we’re trying to make this evacuation seem like a big adventure. Our goal is to make them feel like normal kids again.”

Ivan, 13, said: “It was very difficult for me to leave Ukraine. But I’m so glad we’re safe now.

“My dream is to return to Ukraine one day. But while I’m here, I want to learn Romanian and do sports again.”

Anastasia, 13, is also looking forward to learning Romanian but misses her three sisters, one of whom is still in Ukraine while the other two have fled abroad.

She said: “I look forward to seeing them again one day when the war is over.

“I miss my homeland, but nothing compares to how much I miss my sisters. Luckily I get help to keep in touch with them.”

And Vasili, 16, adds: “At the beginning of the war I was left alone in the orphanage dormitory and didn’t know what to do. Being evacuated to Romania was the best. Now we are all safe.”

Mr Ion added: “One day, when the time is right, we hope to help them return home to Ukraine.

“We also want to help many more Ukrainian children, but that will only be possible with the continued support of the Sunday People readers.

“We cannot thank you enough for your donations and generosity. It saves young lives.”

BLOB: To donate to our orphan appeal supported by Labor leader Keir Starmer go to www.hopeandhomes.org or text HOPE 5, HOPE 10, HOPE 15 or HOPE 20 to 70300 at 5, Donate £10, 15 or 20 to Hope and Children’s Homes.