Anna* was 7 years old when she met Mila* for the first time. She was shy and didn’t want to talk to anyone. Her family had moved to Kiev from the Eastern part of Ukraine, which was stricken by war. Her father had died and her mother was living an antisocial, alcoholic lifestyle. She was now living in an orphanage with her little brother.

When Anna was told that she was to meet her One Hope mentor, she was hoping to see someone with pink hair. Having heard this, Mila wore a pink wig when she came to meet Anna at the orphanage. Anna warmly welcomed her new mentor, and their sweet story began from that heartwarming moment.

The friendship lasted for almost two years, during which time Mila regularly visited Anna. She supported the girl in all possible ways, helping her to accept her situation and to build a closer relationship with her brother.

Throughout these years, Mila learnt a lot about her mentee: her hobbies, likes and dislikes, health situation, talents and skills, favourite things, and many other details. They liked to go shopping together. Mila was teaching Anna the important skills that she would need in her life. Anna was gradually opening her heart more and more, and the trust grew. She began to share her dreams and thoughts with her mentor.

It was important for the girl that her mentor attend special events at the orphanage, especially when she took part in them. She was so proud that someone was there to watch her!

Anna changed a lot. In the orphanage, people saw her as a responsible and friendly girl who took initiative. Her relationship with her brother also became stronger. Anna tried to bring her brother a present each time she and her mentor would go out for fun.

The One Hope team started to pray that Anna and her brother would be adopted into a family. Soon, God answered the prayers of many. A good family decided to adopt Anna and Vlad*. This family already have three children and they are happy to make Anna and Vlad their son and daughter.

Although Mila still supports Anna, especially through the process of adoption, it is now a new season in the lives of these orphans. Not only has Mila impacted the life of this little girl, but Anna has also impacted the life of her mentor, teaching her to find joy in the small things. Anna says that the happiest moments of her life have been those next to her mentor.

Anna is now 9 years old. She has been through very tough times but, thanks to the One Hope mentoring project, she has learnt how to make right decisions and she is ready for an independent life in a new family.

Please pray for increased financial support for the One Hope program in Ukraine.