Future for Gulf Coast Ukrainian refugees uncertain as TPS deadline looms

Ukrainian refugee families are facing an uncertain future as their temporary protected status is set to expire next month, potentially forcing them to leave the Gulf Coast. "I don’t know what to do next," said Inesa Shevchuk, who spoke in Ukrainian through an interpreter. "We’ve been living out of suitcases. I’m worried about the future for our children." The Shevchuks and their two children fled Ukraine in 2024 after enduring the loss of loved ones during the ongoing war in Ukraine. "My cousin, my half-brother, was my role model," said Andriy Shevchuk. "He had a family just like I did. He’s older and always stronger, smarter. When the TCC drafted him, he went. But a month later, we were already burying him." Andriy expressed his concerns about returning to Ukraine, citing worsening conditions. "It’s not safe in Ukraine. It’s getting worse because there’s internal fighting going on," he said. "Even if America does not extend our documents, we will not go back to Ukraine." The Gulf Coast is home to an estimated 6,000 Ukrainians, many of whom rely on the support of Saint Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church as they navigate an uncertain future. "This community has been very helpful," said Father Dmytro Kasiyan of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church. "Not only did our Ukrainian community come together when the war started, but we have great organizations that work with our veterans who lost their limbs, like Revived Soldiers." Both Andriy and Inesa said they have been able to find jobs in the community and are taking English classes. The couple said a Green Card would be difficult to obtain, as they do not have any family who are citizens or the possibility for employment sponsorship. While Andriy said he remains hopeful about starting a business in the United States, Inesa said is cautious about the risks involved. "I always stop him and say, ‘Wait a minute,’" Inesa said. "We can’t take that kind of risk, investing everything we have here, because it’s all temporary — it’ll be over soon." DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.