Our 4th Ukrainian family is that of Iryna and Dmitro Korshun, with sons Andrii (15) and Oleksandr (8). The Korshuns were supported by FUS Team 4, consisting of Bob Aderhold, John & Mary Ann Lundquist, Mikki Morrissette, Barb Lutz, Jenna Hutchinson, Rob Hyde, Becca Brackett, Adele Hansen, Wendy Jerome, Sue Tincher, Bob Johndrow, and Annette & McKenna Cepek.
The Korshuns had resided in Odessa, which was hit hard during the Russian invasion. Dmitro served in the Ukrainian army and assisted his family to flee to Poland and then to Germany. From there, they applied for admission to the U.S. through the Uniting for Ukraine humanitarian parole (HP) program established by the Biden administration and were connected with our team. With our support, Iryna and sons arrived in the U.S. on July 1, 2024. Dmitro continues to serve in the army.
Iryna and the boys are doing well. Iryna works multiple jobs to support her family. She has taken ESL courses and her English has improved significantly. She is strong, independent and outgoing. The family has a nice apartment near Southdale. Andrii attends Edina High School (where he is on the honor roll) and Oleksandr attends Cornelia Elementary School, also in Edina.
Husband Dmitro was able to obtain a short leave from the military last December to come to Minnesota for a visit over the holidays with his family and some of the Team. It was a very special time for all.
We are very happy that Iryna has obtained a two–year extension on her HP status and work permit. The Korshun family is grateful to FUS for the support we have provided.