Hello, we are the Anderson family, we are an international couple who have a desire to make a difference in the country of Ukraine.
Joshua is Canadian born in Haldimand-Norfolk in Ontario and Anastasiia is a Ukrainian, born and raised in Ternopil Ukraine.
We serve with an organization called YWAM (Youth with a Mission). YWAM is an international public organization that works all over the globe operating in missionary and NGO-related work. YWAM Ternopil is the location we call home.
Anastasiia has been serving for 7 years and Joshua has been serving for 6, we have been married for 3 years and have recently returned to Ukraine to serve with YWAM in the country.Â
 YWAM operates in many different theaters and has always been a driving force in global missions for the last 60+ years. We personally like to explain our ministry and work into three categories.Â
1. Mercy ministry: A big reason for any public organization existing is to meet a specific need within a country or community. We see and meet the needs of the internally displaced people of Ukraine (refugees) and serve the homeless within our city. Joshua was a Chef before joining YWAM and he uses his culinary skills to cook delicious and nutritious meals for those in need. Much of our focus has been on helping those affected by the conflict ongoing in Ukraine. We feed 200+ people weekly.Â
2. Teaching: YWAM is a Christian organization and so much of our work revolves around spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to the world. How we express that personally is by participating in several training programs. English, Discipleship, and bible study are among the themes of these training programs.Â
3. Hospitality: With the war many are coming and going, teams from around the world come to work in Ukraine, and Ternopil is strategically located as a good resting point once these teams cross the border from Poland or Romania. We work with these teams, help with outreaches, welcome them, and attempt to do staff care with our permanent staff members stationed in Ternopil.Â