A PIECE OF HOME, A PIECE OF HOPE
A PIECE OF HOME, A PIECE OF HOPE
The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has resulted in loss of life, separation of family members, and damage and destruction of homes, belongings, savings and jobs. Russia’s attacks by missiles, rockets and drones are a daily threat for millions of Ukrainians.
An estimated 12.7 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance inside Ukraine, whilst some 3.8 million people are displaced inside the country, and around 5.6 million refugees are in Europe and beyond.
Every displaced person has their own story – of hardship and devastation, but also of resilience and hope.
The “Piece of Home – Piece of Hope” project gives a voice to internally displaced Ukrainians and Ukrainian refugees, allowing them to share their stories, thoughts and hopes for the future – and showcase an item that they hold especially dear.
Zoia in Ukraine
“Now, it’s my turn to give back”
Zoia, 64, fled Mykolaiv in March 2022 with her beloved cat Tosia after a missile hit nearby. She traveled vel through five countries before ending in Italy, where she spent nine months. Despite the safety and kindness she found there, Zoia longed to return home. By the end of 2022, she made the journey back to Mykolaiv — with Tosia by her side.
Nataliia and Hennadii in Ukraine
“The part of me who wants to laugh, travel and dream is still alive – and keeps me going”
Nataliia and Hennadii were displaced from their home in Kharkiv, when the full-scale invasion started, and it became too dangerous to stay in their home. The couple crossed the country and sought safety in a village in Rivne region in western Ukraine. With them, they brought a set of plates and cups that every day reminds them of their home and good times of traveling abroad before the war.
Valentyna in Ukraine
“My home is where I feel free”
First displaced from her home in Luhansk in eastern Ukraine in 2014, and then again in 2022 when the full-scale invasion began, Valentyna is now living in Kyiv with her two sons. She leads an NGO that helps other mothers with children with disabilities, drawing strength from her own journey and the Ukrainian flag that she has managed to keep with her since she first fled home.
Mariia and Anatolii in Ukraine
“It hurts that the war is taking our children”
Mariia and her husband Anatolii survived occupation, shelling, and the loss of their son who died defending Ukraine. After their home was damaged in an attack in 2024, they were forced to flee their beloved village near Kupiansk. They have not gone far, but found shelter in a collective site in Kharkiv, bringing a painting of their sons. They still dream of peace and returning home.
READ MARIIA AND ANATOLII'S STORY
Iuliia in Austria
“Still, my heart is in Ukraine”
Iuliia was on vacation in Austria with her family just days before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Suddenly, they became refugees. Her family is now thriving in Vienna, and a little cuddly pig toy is a warm reminder of the memories from Kyiv.
Anastasiia in France
“I miss Ukraine a lot but I have decided not to put my life on hold”
Anastasiia fled Ukraine with her sister and their beloved cat, Kotya. The trio reached Paris, France, where they are now immersed in French culture. Anastasiia will soon complete a Master’s degree and is focused on rebuilding her life in France.
Yuliia in Hungary
“I’m still in awe. Budapest inspires me every single day”
Yuliia had a successful career as a TV producer in Kyiv and is now applying her skills with a Hungarian production company, working on music videos and feature films. Yuliia is now establishing a charity organization to support people through video and story-telling. Her most treasured item is a photo of her family, her reminder of home and what really matters.
Valentina in Moldova
“This is the piece of home that keeps me grounded in the world that turned upside down”
Valentina and her husband lived a quiet life near Kharkiv. When they suddenly had to leave, she took her Bible. For Valentina, it’s a reminder of who she was before the war and she takes comfort in the church and community that welcomed them in Moldova.
Olena and Oleg in Poland
“This photo hangs on our wall in the most visible place. It's like a window into our home”
Olena and Oleg immediately started helping other refugees when they arrived in Poland, seeking safety. They run a foundation, providing psychological support and distribute aid to those in need. They hold a photo of their son, Roman, taken during happier times in Kyiv.
Demian in Romania
“Today I brought my bike because of all the things I have, it has value for me, a spiritual one.”
For 17-year-old Demian, it wasn’t difficult to choose his most important item that connects him to Odesa in Ukraine. He always used a bike in Ukraine, it gave him freedom, it’s like a friend to him. After saving money, he managed to buy a new bike in Romania and it’s the item he values above everything else.
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Ukraine emergency appeal
In response to the massive humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine, UNHCR is working with national authorities, UN agencies, displaced communities and local and international partners to provide urgently needed assistance.
