Ukrainian children in Moldova experience a bittersweet second Christmas away from home

Friday, December 22, 2023

“Christmas activities for Ukrainian children are more than mere celebrations; they are a reminder of resilience, bringing a feeling of normalcy and joy in the midst of displacement and hardships," shared Viorica Bulat, World Vision's project manager in Moldova.

Ukrainian children were transported into the world of Santa Claus and the Grinch, and enjoyed the activities, supported by World Vision Korea, and organized by Child Community Family (CCF), World Vision’s local partner in Moldova.

**Two-year-old Amiran froze when he saw Santa Claus for the first time.**

Amiran, a 2-year-old boy, was so excited to meet Santa Claus for the first time that he just froze. He couldn't believe Santa had found him so far away from home.

“These unforgettable experiences, offered by our local partner CCF, gave them hope for miracles and good things," added Bulat.

Others have frozen as well, but this time because of the Grinch. He came unexpectedly, scaring all the children with his antics, as in the case of Smaranda and Andrei.

**The Grinch's grimace frightened Smaranda and Andrei.**

However, the Grinch did not manage to spoil Christmas. After much effort on his part, the children realized that he was not a danger, but that he was just lonely, and he needed their love to celebrate Christmas together.

Samira and Marat, who flew from Odesa, Ukraine, will spend Christmas apart from home this year. Their mother is suffering from serious health issues and will be unable to join them this year. “This Christmas, my only wish is for my mother to get well,” shares little Samira.

**In the face of adversity, Ukrainian children find a ray of hope during Christmas celebrations, feeling loved and cared for.**

Ksenia has another dream. She is spending her second Christmas away from home and has told Santa that her greatest wish is to spend next Christmas at home.

"The protection activities of World Vision Korea's-funded project are vital for refugee children as they give a therapeutic approach to establishing emotional resilience, and improving psychological well-being," concluded Viorica.

**Ksenia enjoys the games, passing on the huge red ball to her friends. Her greatest dream is to spend next Christmas at home, in Ukraine.**

This project also aims to contribute to improved access to cash, Non-Food Items (NFIs), and protection assistance for refugees and host communities affected by the Ukraine Crisis in Moldova.

Everyone has their own wish for Christmas, and since children’s wishes are genuine expressions of their hearts, they have great power. There are no filters, just pure joy and sincere beliefs.

World Vision Ukraine Crisis Response in Moldova has reached more than 254,000 people, of which 116,600 are children.

Story and photos by Dan Munteanu, Communications Officer