In the midst of war-torn Ukraine, mother and her daughter undertook a brave journey from Ukraine to the United States. Fleeing their home in Kyiv following the Russian invasion in February 2022, they navigated multiple countries before arriving in the States.
Upon reaching the U.S., the mother, a doctor and scientist, faced the challenge of finding work in a new land. Securing a job proved tough in her field as an immigrant, and financial constraints made it difficult to afford full-time preschool for her daughter, Eleanor.
Desperate for help, she turned to social media and found a lifeline through a kind-hearted individual who connected her with Iryna Drozdovska, founder of Hopscotch Montessori School. Through the Seeds For Ukraine program, Eleanor received a scholarship for her education.
Upon reaching the U.S., the mother, a doctor and scientist, faced the challenge of finding work in a new land. Securing a job proved tough in her field as an immigrant, and financial constraints made it difficult to afford full-time preschool for her daughter, Eleanor.
Desperate for help, she turned to social media and found a lifeline through a kind-hearted individual who connected her with Iryna Drozdovska, founder of Hopscotch Montessori School. Through the Seeds For Ukraine program, Eleanor received a scholarship for her education.
Story of Eleanor
Summer 2023, Eleanor was three and half years old. Her first day of school was a whirlwind of emotions. Her wide eyes darted around the room, a curious blend of excitement and anxiety in this new world where everyone spoke a language foreign to her ears. But then, as if by some cosmic hand guiding her, she discovered a paintbrush and an array of colors, and a sense of familiarity washed over her. This was her sanctuary, her creative haven, a comforting echo of "home". The teachers, ever-attuned to her needs, became her steadfast allies, advocates who lovingly crafted an environment where learning and belonging intertwined seamlessly.
Eleanor's journey has been defined by remarkable growth, as she not only connected with new friends but also embraced the opportunity to learn. She rapidly mastered the English language and attained age-appropriate skills including literacy and math, but also independence and self confidence. Her transformation within the nurturing sanctuary of education has been nothing short of miraculous. It served as an enduring testament to the profound impact of education and compassion, a radiant reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can still reach for the stars and discover a new beginning.
Eleanor's journey has been defined by remarkable growth, as she not only connected with new friends but also embraced the opportunity to learn. She rapidly mastered the English language and attained age-appropriate skills including literacy and math, but also independence and self confidence. Her transformation within the nurturing sanctuary of education has been nothing short of miraculous. It served as an enduring testament to the profound impact of education and compassion, a radiant reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can still reach for the stars and discover a new beginning.
“What truly warms my heart is that my daughter finally has a stable and nurturing environment. After enduring the immense stress and hardships associated with war and displacement, Eleanor now has a safe space to grow and thrive to her fullest potential.”
– Eleanor’s mother
– Eleanor’s mother
From small to big, seeds to trees,
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every donation will help us grow!
This story reflects the broader challenges faced by Ukrainian refugee children, as approximately two-thirds are currently not part of host countries' educational systems according to UNICEF. Seeds For Ukraine is working to provide opportunities for children like Eleanor, offering hope and a brighter future.
Eleanor's story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the unwavering belief that education can illuminate the path to a better life.
Eleanor's story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the unwavering belief that education can illuminate the path to a better life.
