How a volunteer movement grew into a powerful organization supporting Ukrainian refugees in the U.S.
From the first days of the full-scale war in Ukraine, thousands of refugees sought safety and a new life far from destroyed cities and occupied regions. The United States opened its doors, but even with government programs, the support was not enough. People needed housing, information, assistance, and human compassion. On this foundation, the TraNa Relief Association, Inc. was created — a volunteer nonprofit organization that, since 2022, has been helping thousands of Ukrainians begin new lives in the U.S.
The Story of TraNa Relief
It began in spring 2022, when Ukrainian families started arriving in the U.S. en masse under the humanitarian parole program. The organization’s founder, Natalia Travilina, immediately began helping: welcoming families, arranging housing, providing transportation, offering consultations, and explaining how to live in a new country. Between March and April 2022, her team assisted more than 25,000 people in legally crossing the border and obtaining temporary humanitarian status.
It quickly became clear that the real difficulties began after the border — finding housing, documents, insurance, schools, and simply learning how to live in a new environment without language skills or resources. Natalia decided to create an information hub that could work around the clock. This led to the launch of the Telegram channel MyAssistance, where volunteers began answering questions from thousands of subscribers.
Growth and Recognition
In October 2022, TraNa Relief received official 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, which allowed the organization to attract grants and sponsors. Since then, it has organized dozens of events and programs, bringing together more than 2,600 families.
In June 2023, more than 50 volunteers and refugees visited the New York State Assembly in Albany. They were officially recognized, and lawmakers gave them a standing ovation — a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
Main Areas of Work
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Assistance with housing, documents, insurance, and schools
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Cultural events and walking tours in New York City
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Psychological and educational support
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Legal consultations on housing and immigration status
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Free online seminars on tax preparation and adaptation resources
Despite the growing demand, the organization continues to operate thanks to grants, sponsors, and donations from caring individuals.
Words from the Founder
“Three years ago, I could not imagine that a simple desire to help would grow into a structure with dozens of events, thousands of participants, and recognition at the state level. But the most important thing is the grateful eyes of the people we’ve been able to help,” said Natalia Travilina.
Contacts
Phone: (929) 800-0052
Website: tranarelief.org
Email:
TraNa Relief is not just an organization. It is a community. It is people. It is us.