The war in Ukraine has dragged on for 15 months and the fear is the suffering experienced by those remaining in the country will drop off the radar of many Canadians.
It’s being cast as the largest refugee crisis of the 21st century. More than eight million refugees, mostly women and children, have fled their homes in Ukraine due to the Russian invasion.
St. Thomas and Elgin are aiding the cause by providing support to newcomers forced to flee the country.
Support in the form of housing assistance, host families, employment, English as a second language, mentoring and emotional support.
A fundraiser is being held this coming Sunday at the CASO station and organizer Patricia Maki tells myFM what is planned.
Maki adds a portion of the proceeds from March with Ukraine will go toward settling newcomers in St. Thomas and Elgin with close to 50 Ukrainian family members now living in the area.
She adds many activities are planned for the day, including plenty for kids.
Maki explains a portion of the proceeds will support a second humanitarian mission to Ukraine in June by St. Thomas resident Jack Groot.
He has coordinated donations and has already delivered essential goods, medical supplies, equipment, food products and aid to the frontline.
It’s all about ensuring awareness of the struggle of Ukrainians to defend their democracy and sovereignty remains in the forefront, stresses Maki.
She explains how you can purchase your tickets.
To donate to the fundraiser, email Patricia Maki at marchwithukraine@gmail.com
To donate to the silent auction, email Karen Southworth at elginhelpsua@gmail.com
