Like many Belarusians, Aliaksei Filimonau found himself in exile because of his civic stance. In 2020, he worked at the Minsk Tractor Works, took part in strikes and peaceful protests, and was detained for it. In 2021, fearing criminal prosecution, he left for Poland together with his family.
“I never thought I would have to ask for help publicly, but right now my family—my wife, our three children, and I—are facing a very difficult situation in exile.
I work as an electrician, taking on projects in electrical installation and construction. But the work is not consistent: some months there are enough contracts, while at other times there are very few. Lately, jobs have been scarce, and my income is no longer enough.
We have three children aged 14, 12, and 6. Most of our expenses are related to family needs: housing, food, clothing, school, and the everyday needs of our children. We have always tried to manage on our own and avoid asking for help, but recently that has become increasingly difficult.
Our situation became especially challenging after our rent increased. A significant portion of my earnings now goes toward housing costs and other unavoidable expenses, making it harder and harder to maintain a normal standard of living and provide everything our children need.
Not everyone in our family has adapted easily to life in exile. Our middle son, who is now 12, has had the hardest time. He struggles to adjust to life in a different country, and this has affected his studies. We worry about him and do everything we can to support him, but the move, the loss of familiar surroundings, and the complete change in his life have taken a heavy toll.
My wife is also going through a difficult psychological period. We keep trying to move forward, look for work, and stay strong, but we have reached a point where we simply cannot cope without support. Everything has come at once: the emotional state of our loved ones, the lack of work, and the increase in rent.
Almost all of our savings have already been exhausted. I continue to work, search for new projects, and look for ways to earn a living, but at the moment it is not enough to cover all of our family’s expenses. Even so, I refuse to give up—but without support, it is incredibly difficult.
That is why I am asking for help.
Our main goal right now is to keep our home and stabilize our situation while I look for steady work and try to help my family through this difficult period. I do not want to appeal to pity or pressure anyone emotionally. I am simply asking for support from those who have the ability to help our family get through this time.
Thank you to everyone who has not remained indifferent.”
Fundraising goal
€3000
€1500 – outstanding rent payments and rent for the following month
€1500 – food, clothing, and essential items for three children