My name is Pyotr Shlyakhtenko, call sign “Mehan”. I am a repressed Belarusan, a volunteer, a volunteer, a loving husband and very soon a future father. In 2020, like many other Belarusians, I found myself under the pressure of repression for speaking out against the brutality of the regime. Hundreds of thousands of people fought for their rights, but many of us were forced to leave our homeland.
In 2021, I came to Kiev, where I worked at a service station and as a taxi driver, and then joined the Belarusian diaspora. I helped other refugees who, like me, were seeking asylum. I settled people in my home, met them at the border, transported them, participated in solidarity actions.
With the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I was not left behind — I helped with the evacuation of people and later joined the Kalinovsky Regiment. I served for almost two years, saw a lot of things that are hard to talk about, but I am proud that I was able to contribute to the fight for freedom.
As of March of this year, I have returned to civilian life. Now my wife and I are preparing for the most important event in our lives — the birth of our firstborn son. However, our main goal was to provide security for our future family. That is why we made the decision to move to Poland — the country where my mom has roots and where we will be able to feel safe.
Moving is a difficult and expensive process. The first months after the move will be particularly difficult: until I get my documents, I will not be able to work officially, and the costs of housing and preparing for the birth are very high. We have calculated that we need to raise €3500. This amount will cover the deposit for the apartment, the rent for the first months, and the preparation for the birth of our baby.
Thank you to everyone who is ready to respond and help us in this important moment. Even the smallest amount makes a huge difference!
How much is needed?
€3500
€2500 — accommodation for 4 months + deposit
€1000 — changing table, stroller, things for the baby for the first time.