Ukrainian family embarks on a new orchard business

In Ukraine, ballooning inflation has dramatically increased the cost of family necessities. Heating and food are among the most expensive needs. High rates of unemployment and underpaid work leaves many parents unable to afford these rising costs.

The Konovalyk family, located near our Pochaiv site in Ukraine, has deeply felt the effects of the poor local economy. Anastasia, Anhelina, and Oleksandr are all still school-aged, and rely solely on their mother for support. She wakes before the break of dawn each day to make bread at the local bakery, but doesn’t make nearly enough income to provide everything her children need.

Thankfully, all of the Konovalyk children were chosen by Chalice sponsors, greatly reducing the burden on their mother. It was always the family’s wish, however, to become self sufficient. Along with their small home, the family also owns 25 acres of land. With preparation and care, this land could be used as a garden to supplement their income! The family, however, were just making ends meet and couldn’t afford to invest start up funds for seeds and tools.

A blessing graced the family in the form of a special gift. Thanks to our kind supporters, they received the gift of a small business set-up through our gift catalogue! After meeting with our site staff, it was decided that the funds would be used to prepare land and purchase 400 fruit trees to create a beautiful orchard!

The family chose apple, pear, plum, and apricot trees to start, and will add more tree varieties as their business grows. In the warm months, they will be able to sell a substantial amount of fruit to local families, and still have enough left over for eating. Some fruit, especially apricots, can be dried and stored to be eaten and sold in the winter. The children will be able to enjoy fresh fruit and juice, strengthening their health!

The whole family got involved in preparing land and planting the trees in their new orchard. The children were so excited to take part, and can’t wait to see the trees bloom in the spring!

Help another family become self-sufficient with the gift of a small business set-up through our gift catalogue.