When Nataliia first heard about the Archway Food Bank, she had no idea how transformative it would become for her and her family. Arriving in Canada two years ago from war-torn Ukraine, Nataliia and her husband, Filip, faced numerous challenges as they sought to rebuild their lives. Without any acquaintances in Abbotsford when they first arrived, the couple relied on the kindness of newfound friends who introduced the idea of volunteering to Nataliia.
Settling into their new life was daunting, especially as Nataliia navigated a foreign language and culture. Originally from the city of Donetsk in the Donbass region of Ukraine, Nataliia experienced the devastating impact of war firsthand. Forced to flee, she sought refuge in Mariupol, Ukraine before moving to Turkey, where she first met Filip.
Together, they dreamed of a peaceful life for their new baby girl, which led them to Canada – a country that was also a draw for them because of its large Ukrainian diaspora.
Nataliia, Filip and their daughter
“We are happy to have a peaceful sky above us and the opportunity to learn, work, and grow here.”
Nataliia’s decision to volunteer at the Archway Food Bank was driven by her desire to help others and improve her English. Starting in December 2023, she dedicated her time to sorting and packing food for those in need.
Volunteering not only allowed Nataliia to contribute to her new community but also provided a practical setting to practice her English skills.
“The immediate feedback on my work helps me improve quickly,” said Nataliia.
Despite the initial language barrier, Nataliia found a warm and welcoming environment at the food bank where she can also teach her language to the other food bank staff.
“Nataliia adds great energy to our produce sorting crews. She is a willing and helpful teacher of the Ukranian language which helps us communicate with and welcome our Ukrainian clients and volunteers,” said John Dunning, Archway’s Fresh Food Recovery coordinator.
The camaraderie and shared purpose fostered a sense of belonging that was crucial for Nataliia as she adjusted to her new life in Canada.
Her commitment to balancing her volunteer work with the demands of caring for her young daughter extended beyond the food bank; she also volunteers with Archway’s Lunch with the Bunch program for seniors every Friday. These interactions provided another valuable opportunity to practice English in a relaxed and friendly setting.
“Nataliia’s friendly demeanor and willingness to help wherever is needed has been incredibly valuable, and we are grateful to have her volunteering with us,” said Bethany Evans, Lunch with the Bunch coordinator.
Nataliia’s journey was not without its hardships. The loss of her mother, grandfather, and father during the war is something that Nataliia continues to process. Yet, she remains resilient, driven by the hope of a better future for her family.
Looking ahead, Nataliia dreams of pursuing a career in the medical field, a path she always yearned for but never had the chance to follow in Ukraine. While her background was in economics, her passion lies in becoming a dental assistant—a goal she is determined to achieve as she continues to improve her English.
Nataliia’s story is one of courage, resilience, and hope. Volunteering at the Archway Food Bank has given Nataliia and Filip, who has recently joined her in volunteering, a meaningful way to give back to the community that welcomed their family with open arms.
As she builds a new life in Canada, Nataliia embodies the spirit of perseverance and the transformative power of kindness.
“We are happy to have a peaceful sky above us and the opportunity to learn, work, and grow here.”
*Nataliia was assisted in telling her story in her own words through a certified interpreter through the Archway Interpretation and Translation Services program.
“Nataliia adds great energy to our produce sorting crews. She is a willing and helpful teacher of the Ukranian language which helps us communicate with and welcome our Ukrainian clients and volunteers.”
Food Bank staff and volunteers
“Nataliia’s friendly demeanor and willingness to help wherever is needed has been incredibly valuable, and we are grateful to have her volunteering with us.”