"Welcoming a Ukrainian refugee into our home and lives three years ago, she is now an integral part of our family."
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In the heart of Cheshire, a remarkable friendship has blossomed between Kara Dexter, a local cake maker, and Svitlana, a Ukrainian refugee. Their story began when Kara opened her home and heart to Svitlana, offering her a safe haven during a time of great uncertainty.
Kara, known for her delightful cakes, and Svitlana, a resilient woman with a warm spirit, have formed a bond that goes beyond professional interaction. Their connection is the heartwarming highlight of Cakes by Kara stands, a testament to the depth and warmth of their relationship.
Their friendship started in May 2022, when Kara reached out to a family hosting a Ukrainian woman named Oksana, leading to the introduction of Svitlana and her daughter, Kate. Kate, currently studying for a Master's degree in Lithuania, was also welcomed into the Dexter household.
Katie and Harry, Kara and Mark's children, were supportive of hosting a Ukrainian refugee. Mark picked up Svitlana and Kate from the airport and got them settled, setting the tone for a warm and welcoming environment.
The family views this experience as a gift, as they have all learned and grown from it. Svitlana expresses her gratitude for the warm welcome, sense of peace, comfort, and acceptance provided by Kara and her family. She considers them her safe haven and family in the UK.
Svitlana started a job in a local office in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, just three weeks after her arrival. She has also made significant strides in improving her English, now peppered with local colloquialisms and good humor.
The family shares many happy memories together, including a Christmas celebration filled with 12 traditional Ukrainian dishes. Katie, Kara and Mark's daughter, gained a lived understanding that one can make a life in a new country and that distance doesn't have to break connection.
Kara and her family made it clear that Svitlana and Kate's room was also their home, and they had complete freedom to join the family anywhere in the house. This act of inclusivity has strengthened their bond, creating a true sense of family despite their different backgrounds.
This story is a testament to the power of kindness and hospitality, demonstrating that even in difficult circumstances, meaningful and familial connections can be formed. Kara and Svitlana's friendship is a shining example of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, a programme that aims to offer safety and support to those fleeing conflict.
- Kara and Svitlana's friendship, nurtured within Kara's home, has expanded into a beautiful blend of family and lifestyle, encompassing shared meals, education, and a supportive environment.
- As their bond deepens, they embrace the concept of wellness and home-and-garden, cultivating a sense of peace and tranquility within their shared space, fostering growth and improvement for both parties.
- The experiences they've shared illustrate the transformative power of hospitality and its ability to bridge cultural barriers, creating an oasis of family and comfort for a Ukrainian refugee seeking solace in the heart of Cheshire.
