Ukraine  

The Problem

Since Ukraine’s independence, an estimated 120,000 young women have been trafficked from the Ukraine, mostly for the sex trade. One of the most vulnerable groups to trafficking are young women who are graduated from state-run orphanages at 16 years of age or who are living on the street.

WHI's Solution

WHI’s Hope House is a transition home for young women, a place to belong and learn life skills while completing education. For 14 years, the First Step Center in Odessa, Ukraine is a safe place off the streets for children from high-risk families to learn about God, receive a warm meal and hygiene care.

The Impact

Under the loving supervision of a house mother, 127 young women have completed the program since 2001, receiving life skills training and support to finish high school and college education. Approximately 90 children are served each week through First Step Center. The need to provide a supportive spiritual environment for vulnerable children, especially girls, continues to be great in the Ukraine.