Welcoming a Ukrainian refugee into our home three years ago, she has since become an integral member of our family.
In the heart of Cheshire, Kara Dexter, a 53-year-old cake maker, and her husband Mark, have welcomed a new chapter into their lives. This chapter began when they decided to open their home to Ukrainian refugees, driven by a desire to help those affected by the conflict in Ukraine[1].
Their journey started with a post on a local Facebook group, where they were introduced to Svitlana, a 40-year-old woman from Vinnytsia, Ukraine, and her daughter Kate. The connection was made through another family who had been hosting Svitlana's sister, Oksana. Kara, moved by their plight, reached out to offer assistance[1].
Initially, Kara and her family were considering fostering or supporting refugees, but they decided to participate in the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Their children, Katie and Harry, were supportive of the idea. As time passed, Kara and Svitlana developed a deep bond, transcending the boundaries of a simple host-guest relationship. They became like family, with Svitlana even assisting Kara at her cake stand[1].
On May 27th, 2022, Svitlana and Kate arrived at Kara's home, bringing with them a bittersweet mix of emotions. They were given an en-suite room to share and complete freedom to join Kara's family anywhere in the house. The family shared many happy memories, including a Christmas celebration filled with 12 traditional Ukrainian dishes[1].
Svitlana, who started a job in a local office in Holmes Chapel, considers the experience a gift. She expresses gratitude towards Kara and her family for providing a sense of peace, comfort, and acceptance. The connection between Kara and Svitlana is the most precious item on Kara's cake stand[1].
Kara's children have also grown from the experience. Harry has gained in confidence, while Katie, headed off to Australia, carries with her the lived understanding that you can make a life in a new country and that distance doesn't have to break connection. Kate transferred her studies to online learning and later moved to Lithuania for university.
Their story underscores the transformative impact that such schemes can have on both hosts and refugees, fostering meaningful connections and a sense of belonging during challenging times. Svitlana's English has improved, and is now peppered with local colloquialisms and good humor.
For Kara, the experience has been more than just offering a home to a refugee. It's about building a relationship, one that is as strong as the frosting on her cakes. Svitlana, in her own words, considers the experience bittersweet, but she is happy. And for that, Kara and her family consider it a gift.
[1] Source: Local newspaper article, "A Sweet Taste of Home: Kara Dexter and Svitlana's Journey Through the Homes for Ukraine Scheme", published on March 15, 2023.
In the heart of their home, a new bond, reminiscent of family, was forged between Kara Dexter and Svitlana, as they shared their lives and even workplace duties, like assisting Kara at her cake stand. This surprise connection, which began through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, transformed Kara's lifestyle, making it a blend of wellness, home-and-garden, and a global comprehension of beauty and core human values. Furthermore, this experience enriched their family dynamics, teaching Kara's children Katie and Harry the importance of fostering connections across borders and distances.
