LOOKING FOR JUSTICE

You often hear statistics thrown around about orphans and prison. It is most often estimated that 70% of boys who grow up as orphans in Ukraine will turn to a life of crime as a means of survival. But, there is something that changes when that statistic stops being a number and becomes a name, a face, a story, a life, and a kid you deeply love. 

In light of this, we bring you Slavik. We first asked you to pray for him last Thursday and promised details. The truth is, Slavik grew up without the love of parents, was sent out on his own from an orphanage after 9th grade, and found himself living with his older brother. This older brother had a similar story, but was already immersed in a life of crime with 4 stints in prison behind him. He quickly put pressure on Slavik to join him, but Slavik's sweet nature kept him out of harm over the past 3 years. Last week, Slavik gave in to the pressure (and subsequent abuse from his brother) in a big way and joined his brother's gang in attempting to steal goods from a warehouse in Sumy. 

Slavik at this years Spring Grad Camp

The police were alerted and all the guys involved ran except Slavik. Out of fear from his brother, our gentle-giant (with an incredibly tender heart) was ready to take the blame for the entire group, but thankfully an actual lawyer got involved by way of Slavik's girlfriend. He made it clear to Slavik that with no past record, cooperating with the police, and his character, Slavik didn't have to face a heavy prison sentence (if any sentence), but if he foolishly took the fall for his brother and the other men, he would face years in prison. 

He quickly realized he would "never survive prison" and began cooperating. He was put on house arrest outside the city in order to remain out of harm's way. His older brother was doing all he could to find him and pressure him to take the blame. Luckily, his brother was caught the other day and now a trial awaits. 

We see this situation as a major opportunity share love and grace with Slavik. He hasn't asked for anything (except our company as he sits alone in an empty apartment room) but we are hoping to help cover the costs of a lawyer ($150). The reality is: as an orphan, he is already considered a doomed criminal. We hope to give Slavik the chance in life that wasn't offered to him by his family circumstances, a fair and just trial with actual legal representation and the grace God so freely gives to change. Stay tuned for more as we approach his court date at the end of the month. 

The apartment where Slavik is currently under house arrest. 

If you do feel led to give, please click the donate link on our homepage and leave a little note "for Slavik". 

Hoping for justice, compassion, grace, and eternal change in Slavik's life. Thanks for the prayers!!! 

***Update***
We are so grateful to say that we received enough donations to cover the cost of Slavik's lawyer and buy him some things for while he's on house arrest. Thank you to those who have donated! Please continue to pray for Slavik and his court date on July 26th.