A Sanctuary for Refugees to Rebuild and Thrive

Two weeks after the Ukrainian invasion began, Strazsa Tanya started welcoming handicapped refugee families. The ranch’s mission quickly expanded to include those facing a range of cumulative disadvantages—children without parents, single mothers, individuals with physical or mental disabilities, and those who are illiterate. The center provided these refugees with essential in-kind donations and carried out much-needed renovations to create a safe and welcoming environment for them. Through their partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Strazsa Tanya has been able to help more than 200 Ukrainian refugees rebuild their lives in Hungary.

The philosophy is rooted in their belief that vulnerable groups can only recover and rebuild their lives in a nurturing and supportive environment. The ranch provides safe shelter and a comprehensive support system, including ongoing care even after families move on from the ranch. This approach ensures that these families not only survive but thrive as they transition to independence.

“We start by offering accommodation at the ranch, followed by ongoing support at our community center, Fészek (Nest),” explains Bea Nemetne Horvat, CEO of Strazsa Tanya. “As families regain their strength, they transition to the next phase of their journey—whether that’s finding a job or accessing specialized education for their children. Even after they leave the ranch, we continue to support them. Habitat for Humanity has been instrumental in this process, helping us furnish homes and provide necessary household items for families as they move into their new lives.”

The journey to expand Strazsa Tanya’s reach has been challenging, but in 2023, they reached a significant milestone with the opening of the Fészek (Nest) community center. The Nest was created to provide a safe and nurturing space where disadvantaged refugees could recover, develop, and prepare for the next steps in their lives. It also serves as a hub for collaboration with other NGOs.

Despite delays caused by high winter bills, the Nest is now a thriving center where children can study, play, and grow while their parents work. The daycare and educational programs offered at the Nest have been life-changing for many families, enabling parents to secure employment and providing children with the support they need to thrive.

The Nest has also become a source of employment for residents. “Our community has evolved,” Bea says. “We now have more elderly residents, and some of them have found joy in creating beautiful handicrafts at the center, which we help market. Two Ukrainian women have also taken on part-time administrative roles.”

However, the greatest impact has been on the children. Each afternoon and weekend, special education teachers engage them in activities that promote learning and development. The beloved Miss Judit helps the children with their homework and ensures they have a safe and supportive environment until their parents can pick them up.

During the summer holidays, the Nest organizes camps for the children, providing them with a space to learn, play, and explore. This support has allowed many refugee children to get closer to their dreams.

“For instance, Erik, a kindergarten student, rests at the Nest while his sisters, Amira and Jazmin, do their homework. Their oldest sister, Kamilla, has made significant progress since joining us, and she was recently accepted into her dream high school. She aspires to work in National Defense,” Bea shared proudly.

This family recently transitioned from the ranch to a rented apartment, marking the beginning of their new, independent life. Both parents found jobs, and the children are thriving in school as they settle into their new home and rebuild their lives.