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PTS HIAS Welcome Circle

Since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, over 6.5 million people have fled. Neighboring countries have been providing short-term accommodations, but volume is high and as time goes on, capacity is stretched. 

In response to this critical need, a number of PTS members have created a Welcome Circle and have partnered with HIAS to welcome a Ukrainian family to our area. 

It’s Been an Eventful Six Weeks

(Update March 13, 2023)

After the Welcome Circle spent a busy month preparing for their arrival, the Ukrainian family arrived on January 28th after a long journey from their home in Bucha, Ukraine, and their temporary refugee location in Poland. 

Hanna, Serhii, and their 11-year-old son Gleb were greeted at the airport and brought to their new home in San Bruno where they were welcomed by a fully equipped apartment, stocked kitchen, and a home-cooked meal thanks to the outpouring of generous donations from the community.

Since then, Hanna and Serhii have begun exploring their new neighborhood, taking English classes, and researching employment opportunities, while Gleb has started school and is playing AYSO soccer.

Below is a video that Hanna created about the family's life before and after the war. A warning that it is very powerful but it includes graphic imagery and may be painful to watch.


Our Stories

On a personal note, HIAS was the driving force in resettling several members of our PTS Welcome Circle as they fled the USSR. Click pictures on this page to hear their stories.

Irina Feltsman

Gene Podkaminer


Contact the PTS HIAS Welcome Circle with questions or ideas at welcomecircle @sholom.org.

You can learn more about HIAS and the resettlement process on the HIAS Welcome Circle website.

With gratitude to the Shaine Family Social Justice Fund the many generous HIAS Welcome Circle finanical donors for helping to support the work of the PTS HIAS Welcome Circle.

Fri, March 29 2024 19 Adar II 5784