Orthodox priest and founder of Christian Vision, Alexander Shramko, is asking for support for his six-year-old grandson Matvei, who has a severe form of autism.
Hello!
My name is Alexander Shramko. I am an Orthodox priest and the founder of the public organization Christian Vision, which brings together Belarusian Christians of different denominations to defend human rights, dignity, and freedom in the conditions of political crisis and war. Almost all news about religion published by Belarusian independent media refer to us as a source – and this is something we are truly proud of.
But today I am addressing you not as a public figure, but as a person who needs help.
Because of my participation in the 2020 protests, I was forced to leave Belarus and now live in Vilnius together with my daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. My grandson’s name is Matvei, he is 6 years old. He has a severe form of autism, and he vitally needs constant supportive therapy.
– sensory integration twice a week (€50 per session),
– speech therapist once a week (€45),
– in the near future – a swimming pool for rehabilitation.
In total, we spend approximately €600–700 per month – an amount that is currently too heavy for our family.
Although my grandson has officially been assigned a severe disability (first-degree disability) in Lithuania, because our residence permit is still temporary, we are not eligible for state benefits and compensation. In about a year to a year and a half, the parents will obtain a permanent residence permit, and then it will be possible to apply for state support. But until that moment, we somehow need to get by.
If you have the opportunity to support us – financially, with a repost, or with a kind word – we will be very grateful. Any help matters right now.
Thank you!
Fundraising goal
€4500
This amount will cover six months of regular therapy for Matvei – half of the time until we can obtain a permanent residence permit and count on state compensation. And during these six months, we will definitely come up with something to manage for another six months. Thank you once again!