Born from the Heart: The Story of Maria Bakun and Her Big Family

Today we want to introduce you to Maria Bakun, the heart and soul of a big family. Together with her husband, she has run a family-type home in the village of Sukhodoly (Zolochiv district, Lviv region) for more than ten years — giving warmth and comfort to children who, for different reasons, were once deprived of it.

How it started

The idea of creating a family-type home came to Maria when she was young. “Right after the birth of my first son, I thought about taking a child whose parents had abandoned them in the same maternity hospital. But back then I didn’t have enough courage,” she recalls.

Years later, the desire returned with new strength. After overcoming a serious illness, Maria promised herself she would help at least one child deprived of parental care. She and her husband became guardians of four children after collecting the necessary documents and applying through the child services office.

“At first we thought about one or two children, but when I saw the kids who immediately sat on my lap, I couldn’t let them go,” Maria says. Over time, six more children joined the family. Today she is a mother to ten adopted children who found their home.

A home filled with love

In Maria’s family-type home, everyone knows what love and support mean. “Our children understand: they are not just ‘adopted’ — they are ours. I gave birth to them with my heart,” she says.

The family lives like a real team: older children help the younger ones, they study together, do music and sports. Many have won awards in competitions. “It is a great joy to see children develop their talents,” Maria adds.

Challenges they overcame

“When the children first came to us, they were simply hungry and didn’t know basic hygiene rules. Together we went through a difficult path full of challenges — and victories,” Maria shares.

Teenage years can be challenging, but the family always finds ways to cope. Support from psychologists, volunteers, and kind people helps them move forward.

What matters for children

“Children must know they have mom and dad who will always support them,” Maria emphasizes. Misunderstandings at school or any hardships can be discussed at home, with confidence they will be heard and helped.

Maria teaches her children that her home is a place where every child will always be listened to and supported. “You are mine, I gave birth to you with my heart,” she often says. This love helps children grow up happy and confident.

How support changes children’s lives

Today the family needs financial support to provide essentials: food, clothing, medicine. “We used to be able to travel; now it has become a luxury. But we dream of showing the children the world and helping them fulfill their dreams,” Maria says.

The Bit Spilka team purchased food to cover the family’s basic needs and provided children with warm clothing and shoes. Special attention was also given to their development — they received educational toys and creative kits that support intellectual and emotional growth.

“I ask people to open their hearts. Don’t be afraid to help children or even take them into your families. It is hard work, but very rewarding. You will see how their lives change and realize it is the best thing you could do,” Maria says.

The Bit Spilka Foundation is proud to support families like this. Thanks to joint efforts, we help provide children with everything they need for a happy childhood and development. We also share such stories in hopes of inspiring as many people as possible to do good.

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