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As war continues in Ukraine against Russia, so does the support here on the Central Coast.

Ukrainian refugee, Yulia Gorenko, developed a project called, “Scents of Ukraine.” The project consists of Ukraine-inspired candles and helps raise funds to send back to those in need in Ukraine.

“It's pain every day, every moment. You don't feel any joy. You feel only guilty that you are alive,” Gorenko said.

She describes the moments leaving her country. She said she was filled with fear and carrying just one suitcase. Gorenko said goodbye to her mom and the life she knew. She got out just before the bombing started.

"My mom actually came to the airport with me to send me off and like, she hugged me and I knew that it's like, I don't know when we're going to see each other again. It was that kind of hug," she said.

Days after she arrived in California as a refugee, she got the news she dreaded, Russia had invaded. Gorenko describes the moment her mom first heard the sound of war.

“I'm like, 'Mom, the war started. People say the war started.' And she's like, 'No, no, it's OK.' And then she stops talking for a few seconds and she goes, 'Oh, I hear it.'”

A shocking and devastating reality, war had come to her country and she had no idea how or when it will end.

"The streets where you walk your dog or, you know, go meet your friends for a coffee. The peaceful, lovely neighborhood where you are from. Tanks are going through it. You know, it's unimaginable. It's a nightmare," Gorenko said.

Feeling guilty for her safety, Gorenko started making candles that highlight her country in a different light. She then sends some of the proceeds back to Ukrainians and one volunteer in particular who almost lost his life.

"One of his trips, his vehicle got shelled by the Russians. He survived, but he lost his feet. I was able to raise some money and send him some financial aid to actually help him to recover," she said.

Gorenko is helping in whatever way she can and holds onto hope. Her message to those back home is simple.

"You are not alone and Ukraine will win," Gorenko said.

To support: Hand-made scented candles | Scents of Ukraine

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