Bohdan Palivoda

Bohdan Palivoda arrived in Ivano-Frankivsk thanks to volunteers. Before the war, he lived in the village of Poniativka, in the Kherson region. During the occupation, he was unable to evacuate and eagerly awaited the liberation of the area. However, he did not experience peaceful life for long. After the village was freed, it began to be shelled from a distance, destroying everything around. Now, almost no one remains in the village. Fleeing from the danger, people went to relatives and friends in other cities or abroad. Bohdan’s wife had passed away long ago, and he has no children. He stayed in his house, hoping he would never have to leave his beloved home. But then, a rocket hit his house. The roof was destroyed, as were most of the walls. Bohdan tried to patch up the roof by himself, but it was impossible without the proper materials. With no electricity, he cooked food and warmed himself by making a fire.

It was volunteers who saved Bohdan Palivoda from constant shelling and helped him get to Ivano-Frankivsk. He arrived with no documents and no essential belongings.

With a smile, Bohdan adds: “I am truly, truly grateful to everyone. Everyone here is so kind and open with me! These are not just people… they are lifesavers.”

The story of Bohdan became known at the shelter. He was provided temporary support at the senior citizens’ shelter in the village of Vojnyliv. The charity foundation “Pravo na Zakhyst” helped him restore his documents, while Caritas Ivano-Frankivsk assisted in finding him permanent housing.

Bohdan feels the love and care not only from the shelter staff but also from its residents. From the very first day, everyone supported him in any way they could. Some shared clothes, others provided hygiene products. The outpouring of care brings Bohdan to tears.

Unfortunately, in addition to losing his home, Bohdan also faces health problems. After a work accident at a construction site, where he had worked for a long time, he had a prosthetic leg fitted. Due to constant strain, the prosthetic bent, making it difficult and uncomfortable to walk. However, ordering a new one requires significant savings, which Bohdan does not have.

Despite everything Bohdan has been through, he tries to smile, though his eyes are filled with sadness and pain. He constantly expresses gratitude for the kindness and support he receives from the shelter staff and its residents. He thanks them for the hot meals and for the opportunity to live in comfort, something he hasn’t felt in a long time. He dreams that the war will end soon, and that he will have the chance to gradually rebuild his house—a place of peace and happy memories, which will always remain in his heart and thoughts.