"I quit my job, took my things, returned home, prepared for evacuation, and waited for the results of the first day of the full-scale war”, Oleksandr says.
On the morning of February, 24, Anastasia called her parents. "At first they didn't believe it and went to bed again. Only then they did understand what have happened”, she says.
It was difficult for her to make any decisions. She wanted to go abroad but then decided to stay in the city to help others.
"We helped to defend Chernihiv. I started to collect tires at the checkpoints, we made Molotov cocktails and started to volunteer”, Oleksandr says.
Both of them already have some experience in volunteering. Previously, Alexander helped the military in Donbas, and Anastasia participated in various educational projects, concerts etc.
“I quit volunteering a few years ago. But life turned out differently. You see inquiries, photos, stories of your neighbours and relatives - and you can't stay aside", Anastasia said.
The couple delivered humanitarian aid to hotspots in Chernihiv. They helped the residents of the city even during the shelling and managed to provide the military and civilians with basic necessities.
They managed to feed more than 20 thousand people, drove more than 100 people out of the hotspots and helped another 50 people to get out of the occupation. They drove up the Ukrainian military, doctors, fighters of the territory's defence army, and civilians.
"We spent literally one day in a bomb shelter. It was difficult because you understand that you can help right now, but you just sit and do nothing”, Anastasia says.
Anastasia and Oleksandr managed to unite volunteers not only in Chernihiv but also in the region, as well as to unite with the regional military administration and work together. Thus they can help people more effectively.
After the Russian military left Chernihiv the city is trying to return to a peaceful life and restore its infrastructure. People can already buy a few goods in stores. But many of them have lost their savings, and housing and have no means for life.
"Prices have increased by at least 1.5 times, and the number of products has decreased. People lost their jobs, and wages fell. Many of them are on the verge of survival", said volunteers.
Oleksandr and Anastasia notice significant physical and emotional exhaustion. So far, it is difficult for them to plan their future, as it is unclear what will happen tomorrow: peace or shelling.
"All our plans are cancelled. But we are much needed here, so we have to hold on. Sometimes we try to take walks. Also, I want to write a book and continue working”, Anastasia says.
