Inclusion of individuals with special needs is slowly growing in Ukraine. We pray that making Boys Club an inclusive place is helpful, not only for kids like Lyosha, but also for kids who otherwise are not interacting with people who might be different from themselves. Would you pray for more volunteers to help with the JOY Center for Children with Autism? Would you pray for the families like Lyosha’s who have very little local resources or support to care for their special children?

God has been so faithful to us these past three years. We first moved with a commitment to 3 years in Odessa, and we feel like we are just getting started! We are committing to two additional years, Lord-willing! We will see where He leads us. Thank you for being a part of all God is doing in Ukraine to restore and redeem families! We would not be here without your prayers, giving and encouragement! Philippians 1:3

Last year we were celebrating Christmas in America, with newborn baby Remington. This year we are counting down to the birth of our Savior in our other home halfway across the world. And that world looks a lot different. Through all the uncertainties of this year God has been gracious to our family.

Yura lead a team to get this family’s home up to code. They combined service with mentorship, bringing along 7 teenage boys from a foster home in Odessa. These boys are being raised by a single foster mother, with little influence from any father figure. They crave acceptance and guidance!

Our sign language classes are in full-swing. We are often overwhelmed with how much we have to learn, but our deaf friends have been so patient with us. Several of the teens have asked us about deep topics + Christianity.

The consistent theme we see with graduates from orphanages and boarding schools is a lack of skills and/or knowledge and concept of the future (be it next week or next year!). Even on the biking trips Yura noticed that the teenage boys didn’t know how to use basic tools to unscrew a bike wheel or reattach it. Our partners at Heritage have started a Guys Club that meets every Saturday to teach young men skills like woodworking, handicraft and budgeting. Yura is looking forward to joining them when we return to Odessa!