Guildford Charity Struggles to Find Host Families for Ukrainians

A charitable organization based in Guildford, which assists Ukrainians in finding accommodation in Surrey following the outbreak of conflict in their homeland, has reported difficulties in securing a sufficient number of host families. GUkraine informed BBC Radio Surrey that it has provided aid to approximately 2,500 individuals since the beginning of 2022, but currently faces an unprecedented demand for housing. This marks the third Christmas in the United Kingdom for some Ukrainians. Tina Moon, a co-founder of GUkraine, observed that while initially many individuals “wonderfully hosted,” the number of new volunteers has decreased over time. She stated, “It’s really sad, it’s just impossible.” Sonya Ohii, a Ukrainian national, relocated to Guildford at the age of 15 alongside her mother and younger sister. She is currently pursuing film studies at university. Ohii remarked, “I feel proud of myself,” adding, “I know how hard I worked to achieve this in a new country. I learned everything new here.” She expressed longing for the individuals she left behind in Dnipro, an industrial city situated in central Ukraine that has experienced frequent strikes by Russian bombs. Ohii commented, “Every day there’s rockets, every day explosions. I can say that my family and friends are completely different…because of the conditions.” Her father remains in Ukraine due to restrictions preventing men of military age from departing the country. Sonya stated she is “always worrying but there’s nothing I can truly do…I talk to my dad every day asking if he is all right. It’s really hard if they don’t make contact with you the next day.” The 19-year-old student conveyed her gratitude for the support she has received, adding that “it’s great to feel you are not alone.” Larysa Smirnova arrived in the region in May 2022 with her four-year-old son, while her husband stayed behind. Soon after, she relocated to a new rental residence and established her own company, Lora Cleaning Services. Larysa acknowledged her host, Rachel, for her assistance, stating that “she didn’t give me fish, but gave me the tools.” She maintains regular communication with her family in Ukraine but noted, “Everyone feels it’s harder to stay in Ukraine but it’s also hard to stay in the UK because all of the time you are challenged.” She mentioned her husband was endeavoring to “focus on work and waiting for his family.” She plans to visit Ukraine for Christmas, but observed, “When people celebrate, they wish for only one thing – everyone wants the war to finish quicker.” Ms. Moon expressed significant gratitude for the assistance provided by local communities and churches. She further stated that the charity has successfully arranged housing in Guildford and Waverley, supplied essential items, and offered support with navigating local and national governmental processes.