Student Spotlight – Olha Dobrianska

For her thirteenth birthday, Colonial Middle School student Olha Dobrianska is collecting care items for infants and their mothers to send to Ukraine.

“Many parents lost their homes and their belongings because of the war, and they have small children in their arms,” Olha says. “Now in Ukraine, children’s items are quite expensive. This program will provide basic help.”

Olha arrived from Ukraine within the last month. "I felt anxious and happy at the same time," she explains. "I didn't want to leave Ukraine, but I didn't have a choice. When I came to America, I was surprised by everything. There are so many shops and everything is so big, from buildings to the size of food."

Olha is collaborating with the American Ukrainian Relief Association. Her older sister Mia has done a lot of work with them, which is what inspired Olha’s collection efforts.

“Mia thinks about the needs of others and is a helper. As soon as the full-scale war began, she was constantly looking for volunteers and people who could help. When you help someone in need, it brings happiness to a person,” she says.

“Everyone should feel happiness. In Ukraine, once upon a time, children’s laughter could be heard there while adults went to work,” Olha continues. “In some places, there is simply nothing left. Because of this, I want to help my country.”

You can find the Amazon wish list of items for Olha’s collection here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/19QYQWENWZXW1?ref_=wl_share. Donations can also be dropped off in Mrs. Penrice’s classroom.