A Home for Hope: Our experience hosting a Ukrainian refugee family

By Kaspar Häni, Operations PMO Manager, Jabil

As we all know, the war in Ukraine began in 2022—an event that remains etched in our memories with sadness. Shortly after the Russian army’s invasion, a large wave of refugees began moving toward Western Europe, desperately searching for safety and shelter for their families. The same was true in my homeland, Switzerland.

My name is Kaspar Häni, and I have the privilege of living in a safe country, able to offer my family a secure and nurturing environment. I’m grateful to work for Jabil, a company that not only promotes a global mindset but also embraces values of inclusion that align with my own.

Together with my wife, we made the decision to open our home and offer our guest room to a refugee family in need. We had enough space—and felt it was only right to share it with those going through such hardship.

What followed was both challenging and deeply rewarding. After navigating some initial hurdles—administrative tasks, language barriers, and cultural differences—we welcomed a three-person family from Donetsk. Over time, they became more than just guests in our home; they became our friends.

Their time in Switzerland gave them a soft landing—a place to adapt to a new environment and begin building an independent life. For us as hosts, the experience offered a powerful and personal connection to the harsh realities of the war in Eastern Europe and allowed us to directly support a family in need.

For our two children, it was an eye-opening lesson. They realized that war is not just something they read about—it’s real, and it impacts real people. They learned that the safety and comfort we enjoy cannot be taken for granted, and that we have a responsibility to help others when we can.

After three months, we mutually decided to end the hosting arrangement—not because we wanted to see the family go, but because we believed it was time to support their journey toward full independence in their new home country.

What remains are heartfelt memories, new friendships, and the rich experiences we shared—like cooking and enjoying Swiss and Ukrainian meals together. We carry with us a deep awareness of the reality and horror of war, but also the joy and power of human connection.

Here’s to international friendship—and the pursuit of peace.