Article by: Abe

Anastasia Osipenko (19), who was evacuated to Saitama City in Saitama Prefecture due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, began working part-time in the city in mid-August.

 Osipenko currently works three times a week at the discount store Rodgers Urawa, which is run by Hokushin Shoji (Sakura Ward). He is mainly in charge of work such as replenishing the shelves with household goods that have been delivered. When asked through an interpreter app, she replied in Japanese, "It's a bit difficult. But it's fun. Everyone is very kind." While attending a Japanese language school in the city, she takes online classes at a university in her home country and works part-time. She started living alone in a municipal housing provided by the city, took a new step toward independence.

 After the invasion of Russia on February 24, I found a homestay in Saitama City by myself and evacuated there in May. The families live separately, with his father in Ukraine and his mother and brother in the UK. Using an interpreter app on her smartphone, Osipenko replied, "Sometimes I feel lonely. I hope it will end soon. Japan is good. Thank you for your support."

 Mr. Toyama, 21, who is in charge of education, recalls, "To feel war so close." She is conversing with an interpreter app and is supported by her part-time colleagues. I enjoy working with everyone while watching her grow."

 In April, the company donated the equivalent of 10 million yen to the city, including living allowances and relief supplies for Ukrainian refugees. Makoto Tsukui, 45, the shop's manager, said, "I think she's having a hard time because she doesn't understand the language, but she's positive and seems to be enjoying her job. I would like to prepare a job as a staff member and continue to provide support."