One year after war in Ukraine began, refugees continue to ask for local support

A year after Russia's invasion in Ukraine, more than a quarter million Ukrainians have relocated to the U.S., with thousands having moved to Spokane. Albert Piroh, a Ukrainian refugee says he's thankful for peace and support after leaving everything but hope behind. After experiencing bomb attacks near his home, Piroh knew he had to leave the country quickly. "So sad. I left my relatives and neighborhood behind. I just grabbed basic needs, clothes and documents and got out of there not knowing what's going to happen next," he said. Last March, he faced unexpected family separation at the Polish border. He had to leave his 19-year-old son behind because of lack of documentation. "I'm so sad that my son is still in Ukraine because there's no support for him right now. I'm trying to send him money every month," Piroh said. "In Spokane, we've seen just over 2,000 refugees," said Boris Borisov, co-founder of the Ukrainian Relief Coalition. "Obviously a job, finding a place to live, transportation, all of these things everybody is challenging with right now." Partnered with Thrive International, the Ukrainian Relief Coalition was able to provide over 80 families with temporary housing. "They helped me with food, any activities, there are more possibilities to spend my time," said Olha Muntian, a Ukrainian refugee. Local organizations like the Ukrainian Relief Coalition are facing uncertainty over legal status in the U.S., and they're looking for more support. "Continue supporting Ukrainians by going to Thrive International and checking out the hotel and the ways you can donate supplies, donate basic necessities, we have amazon packages you can buy bedding, food, small appliances like that," Borisov said. ►Subscribe:    / 4newsnow   ►Website: http://www.kxly.com ►Twitter:   / kxly4news   ►Facebook:   / kxly4news