Ukrainian Family Finds New Hope

In a heartfelt ceremony in Bucha, Kyiv region, First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska presented the keys of a new house to the Hrantsev family, a large foster family displaced by the Russian occupation. The event, part of the “Room for Childhood” initiative led by the Olena Zelenska Foundation, took place on June 18, 2026.

The Hrantsev family, formerly residents of the Kherson region, had to flee their home due to the ongoing conflict. Despite these challenging circumstances, Liliia and Andrii Hrantsev have opened their hearts and home to children in need, now caring for seven foster children, including two brothers who tragically lost their parents in the war, alongside their biological son, Bohdan.

The “Room for Childhood” project, a cornerstone of the First Lady’s foundation, aims to support large foster families by providing them with fully equipped homes. These homes are designed with the safety and needs of children in mind, offering not just shelter but a nurturing environment essential for their growth and well-being. To date, the initiative has successfully handed over homes to 22 families, with 16 more under construction.

Adding to the generosity, the Hrantsev family also received a minibus from the Kyiv Regional State Administration, enhancing their mobility. The construction of their new home was made possible through the support of the A.P. Moller Relief Foundation, a Danish partner of the project. This gesture of international cooperation highlights the global commitment to humanitarian aid and the importance of family-based care during times of crisis.