JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Two years after fleeing Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion, the Moiseienko family is finding their footing in Florida, with 2023 marking significant milestones in their new life.
Vitalii Moiseienko, a young soccer enthusiast, proudly displays his medals earned this year, a testament to his perseverance and passion.
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For Zoriana Moiseienko, Vitalii’s mother, the journey to this point has been nothing short of challenging. Recalling the early days of the invasion, she described an atmosphere of uncertainty.
“For the first, it was a lot of fear, and I was overwhelmed that this was the most painful experience of my life,” she said. “We left everything, didn’t say goodbye, and at first it was like I didn’t know what to do next.”
The family quickly packed their belongings and moved to Poland before eventually resettling in Northeast Florida, where Zoriana’s brother already lived.
This year has been pivotal for the Moiseienkos. Zoriana, who worked as an accountant in Ukraine, earned a promotion to fiscal coordinator.
“This was a big step in my career,” she said. “This was very necessary to support my family, and I’m so happy I can continue as I had accountant experience in Ukraine. I’m so proud of myself.”
The family credits much of their progress to the community’s support. They highlighted Wayne and Delores Weaver, former owners of the Jacksonville Jaguars, for their instrumental role in raising funds to help them settle.
“I’m thankful for all strangers that help us settle in,” Zoriana said.
Her sister-in-law, Yuliia Sherstiuk, echoed the sentiment.
“I’m very appreciative of my family,” she said.
Erika Tkhorzhevska, a niece, expressed gratitude for family support.
“I’m thankful for my uncle helping us to come here,” she said.
Yarik Sherstiuk, another family member, shared his appreciation for the opportunities in America.
“I’m thankful for coming to America,” he said.
Despite their gratitude and growing stability, the family remains mindful of the ongoing war in Ukraine and wants others to remember the struggles their home country still faces.
The Moiseienko family arrived in the United States under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, which allows Ukrainian citizens and their immediate families to stay temporarily. Their status under the program is set to end in the spring of 2026.