Caught in the crossfire of War

When Russia invaded Donetsk, Ukraine, the Basin family found themselves in the middle of the fight.

Ninel said, “It happened all at once, with soldiers running through the streets and machine guns firing.  It was like a nightmare.  We had no choice but to flee this place to protect our two daughters.”

“I could hear the bombs at the edge of Donetsk,” said Igor.  “I was scared for my whole family.  I thought about our daughters’ future, and I dreamed of holding my grandchildren one day.  So, we ran.”

Igor and Ninel quickly loaded two suitcases with what they could and fled the city with their daughters. The Basins are Jewish, and immigrated to Israel.

Ninel explained, “We had no idea what it would be like starting a new life in Israel.  We couldn’t speak the language, and we moved into an empty apartment with nothing.”

With no money to buy furniture or appliances, the family was in dire need.

Ninel said, “We lost faith.  I felt like a motherless child.”  

Then Ninel met a man in her Hebrew class who told her CBN Israel could help.  She contacted us, and we gave the family a brand-new refrigerator, stove, and washing machine.  People in the community helped them find some free furniture.

“Now we feel like we are protected, and at home here,” said Ninel.   “Thanks to you, we feel like somebody cares about us.”

Igor said, “Before we came here, I didn’t know CBN Israel existed, or that you would simply give us everything we needed.”

Both Igor and Ninel are working now, and the girls are doing well in school.  Because of CBN Israel, the Basins have gotten a fresh start.

“I want to say thanks to all those who are helping not only us, but others in need,” said Igor. “You set a very good example for how people are supposed to care for each other.”

Ninel said, “Thank you very much. You do not just give financial support, but hope to people who are starting over with nothing. Everything will be okay now. I believe we have a good future.”