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BANDURA ON BLOOR

Fundraiser Concert Series for Even the Brave Struggle

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CUF depends on compassionate Canadian communities and individuals like you to fulfill our critical mission: delivering life-saving humanitarian aid to Ukraine. We’re profoundly grateful for champions like the Toronto Bandura Festival, which is organizing two powerful fundraising concerts this spring. In the face of Russia’s brutal aggression, music has become not just a cultural expression, but a powerful form of resistance, healing, and unity for Ukrainians. Join us in this vital cause—attend these extraordinary concerts to experience the power of the bandura, while directly supporting those who have given everything in the defense of freedom.

Kobzars and bandurists have been prominently featured in Ukrainian armies since the time of the Zaporizhian Kozaks. In this war, music has been fundamental in helping maintain good mental health for Ukrainian soldiers, veterans and civilians. The bandura has played an essential role in that effort. Songs and melodies played on Ukraine’s national instrument continue to support the morale of Ukrainian defenders and help them sustain their faith, mental fortitude and belief in victory. Modern bandurists like Maryna Krut, Taras Stoliar, Liubov Shipiliuk, and many others regularly play for Ukrainian troops near the frontline and perform abroad to fundraise money for various essential initiatives and fundraisers supporting Ukraine as well as raise awareness of the numerous war crimes Russia is committing in their country.

In honour of this tradition, the newly founded Toronto Bandura Festival is organizing a two-show bandura concert series – Bandura on Bloor in an effort to fundraise for the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. Two concerts are scheduled this Spring. On Friday, March 21, the first show will feature New York-based soprano and bandurist Teryn Kytasty-Kuzma with an opening act from Toronto-native bandurist Yarko Antonevych at the Heliconian Hall in Toronto. On Friday, May 30, the second show will feature bandurist Mariia Smolinska from Odesa, who currently lives in Victoria, BC, and Toronto-based bandura-viola fusion band DIVKA at the Royal York Road United Church in Toronto. Both concerts will be followed by a reception for all the guests and are a delightful opportunity to spend one’s Friday night with the magical sounds of the bandura!

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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Canada & Ukraine: A Sacred Bond of Hope and Solidarity

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“For me, Canada is like a godmother,” says Alla, a Ukrainian veteran and recent Invictus champion. Her words capture the profound bond that has united our nations through darkness and light. For generations, Canada has stood as a beacon of hope and support for Ukraine. Today, as Ukraine fights for its very survival, this sacred relationship calls us to action.

Since the brutal Russian invasion shattered peaceful Ukrainian skies, Canadians have opened their hearts, homes, and resources. Every form of Canadian support—whether financial aid, military assistance, or humanitarian relief—represents a lifeline to a nation fighting not just for territory, but for its soul. Fighting to preserve a people, a culture, a way of life stretching back through centuries. This is more than material support; it symbolizes our shared commitment to freedom, sovereignty, and human dignity.

“For Ukrainians, we are rooted in the earth,” Alla explains. “For every piece of land, we are ready to sacrifice our lives.” Ukrainians have a profound connection to their homeland – one that resonates with Canadian values of territorial integrity and national sovereignty.

Veterans like Alla know just how important it is that Canadian support for Ukraine remains strong. Your support of Ukraine is not merely charity—it is an investment in our shared humanity and security. It is a promise that Canada’s unwavering support will continue until Ukraine stands free again.

Alla’s fight is Ukraine’s fight.

Stand with her.

Stand with Ukraine.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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Support That Changes Lives: CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal Partnership with Open Doors

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As Ukraine endures the devastating effects of war, the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that provide essential psychological assistance to those affected by the ongoing conflict. Today, we are proud to highlight our impactful partnership with the Open Doors Psychological Counseling Center. 

The scale of Ukraine’s mental health crisis cannot be overstated. Recent assessments by experts indicate that over 15 million Ukrainians—approximately 40-50% of the population—will require psychological support as a result of the war. The statistics are particularly alarming for vulnerable groups: 75% of Ukrainian children show symptoms of psychological trauma, while 40% of military personnel and veterans will need specialized mental health support (with 60-80% showing signs of acute trauma). Behind these numbers are real people—families torn apart, children who have lost their sense of security, and brave defenders carrying invisible wounds of trauma.

With CUF’s support, the Open Doors Psychological Counseling Center has made remarkable progress in addressing these critical needs. In 2024 alone, they have served 5,100 individuals and provided 13,046 hours of psychological services. Their network of 60 trained psychologists specializes in trauma therapy, family psychology, and child psychology, employing evidence-based therapeutic methods including EMDR, cognitive-processing therapy, and other trauma-informed approaches. 

Beyond direct services, our partnership is building Ukraine’s capacity for long-term mental health support. The International Institute of Postgraduate Education, part of Open Doors’ organizational structure, trains psychologists in evidence-based therapy methods. Thanks to your generous contributions, CUF has helped fund the education of 40 students who completed the program in November 2024, as well as 20 new students from seven different Ukrainian regions who began their studies in June 2024.

The impact of this work is best expressed by the program graduates themselves. One shared: “Thanks to supervision with Ukrainian and international specialists, I gained confidence in my abilities as a therapist. Now I can call myself a trauma therapist and am ready to help those who need support.” Another noted: “I’m convinced that investing in knowledge is one of the most valuable investments. The training was filled with sessions, practical tasks, and weekly meetings with supervisors.” 

As demand for psychological services continues to grow, our partners are working to expand their network of service providers across Ukraine and train more specialists in advanced trauma therapy approaches. Your continued support enables this vital work to reach more veterans, families, and children in need. 

We are particularly proud of how this partnership complements our “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign, which focuses specifically on mental health support for veterans and civilians. According to Open Doors’ data, 52.5% of psychological consultations are provided to veterans and military families, addressing critical issues like PTSD symptoms, sleep deprivation, and combat-related trauma. By supporting initiatives like this one, we are creating a comprehensive approach to mental health care that serves Ukraine’s defenders and the civilian population they protect.

Your generosity makes this healing work possible. Your donation to the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal’s “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign, running until April 6th, 2025, will help provide mental health services and rehabilitation to veterans and address other urgent humanitarian needs in Ukraine. Your contribution today will be doubled thanks to the Myhal Family Foundation, which is generously matching donations up to $1 million until April 6th. Thank you for standing with Ukraine not just in rebuilding the country, but in supporting the mental well-being of its people.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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Unbreakable: Ukraine’s Defiant Stand Against Russian Aggression

Article by Charles Lewis

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For 11 years, Ukraine has been plagued by gut-wrenching war, which began in 2014 with Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and Donbas region. Then, in an act of vicious aggression, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022 with a massive number of armoured vehicles and troops. Part of the opening salvo was the indiscriminate bombing of cities, killing and maiming of civilian men, women, and children.

With its overwhelming “might”, Russia planned a quick end. Then, Ukraine surprised its allies and Putin’s cronies. It garnered enormous support from allied governments, the Ukrainian diaspora, and ordinary people with no ties to Ukraine who believed in justice. A lot of that aid has come from everyday Canadians, whose values align with those of the Ukrainian people.

But now, the future of that aid is in doubt. With the new administration of the US government, too many people falsely assume that the war is about to end. That is a mistake. The United States, Canada’s neighbour and closest ally that has been a great supplier of much-needed aid to Ukraine, has turned its back on Ukraine for reasons hard to comprehend. Attacks on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the country he governs have shocked freedom-loving people everywhere. Putin denies the Holodomor, the man-made famine by Stalin’s regime that killed millions of Ukrainians, ever happened, while the United States officials court this view, claiming that Zelensky is a dictator, hated by his people, and pushing the preposterous lie that Ukraine started the war.

Even worse, a few weeks ago Americans reached out to Russia to hold peace talks without including Ukraine and Europeans, demanding that Ukrainians surrender territory violently seized by Russian invaders with an implicit “or else.” United States officials seem unconcerned that Russia is untrustworthy, having continually broken promises regarding Ukraine. If Ukraine is forced to concede some of its territory, then Putin will take it as a green light to invade again. History has shown time after time that one should not appease tyrants.

But hope remains—the inner strength that burns in the hearts of Ukrainians who refuse to quit. Their courage is unfathomable. Just look at who the men and women defending Ukraine. The New York Times just published a moving story about how many of the wounded are returning to the front. Many of these are soldiers who have lost limbs. Some are adapting to doing their duty with a prosthesis. 

“A soldier who goes by Hulk lost his lower right leg in combat, and now he commands a drone unit.”

“Doctors advised another soldier by the name Hammer, who stepped on a mine and lost part of his foot, to get a full amputation. He refused. His prosthesis, a dated model, is uncomfortable. But ‘for now, I’m coping,’ he said. ‘Even if they tear off all my legs and arms, I will do my best.’”

There are many others, including double amputees. One photo that ran recently showed a soldier who lost both arms carrying a machine gun. To say these people are awe-inspiring is an understatement.

To the amazement of the free world, Ukraine has fought back like brave warriors. Instead of folding in a few days, Ukraine has refused to cave. According to the Government of Ukraine, Russia has lost about 882,950 troops and thousands of armoured vehicles — many abandoned as crews fled for their lives while besieged by Ukrainian fighters. Russia has become so desperate that it has imported North Korean soldiers, an experiment that has been a failure.

Ukraine, too, has paid a huge price in blood and physical destruction. Some sources claim that nearly 46,000 soldiers died. It has also seen the destruction of cities bombed indiscriminately by Russia to break the spirit of the population. The UN has said more than 12,300 civilians have been killed, including 650 children. The worst thing we can do is give up on Ukraine. No one should be led to believe that peace will arrive anytime soon. Ukraine will need our support for a considerable time to come.

The best way to support Ukraine is by donating to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, which has provided humanitarian aid on Canadians’ behalf since 1995. Just three weeks before the full-scale invasion, they launched their CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, which has delivered over 95 million dollars’ worth of humanitarian aid to Ukraine since February 2022. By donating today, you contribute to initiatives supporting mental health, veterans’ rehabilitation, and urgent humanitarian needs in Ukraine.

Ukrainians need us, fellow Canadians. Let’s transform compassion into action and keep standing with Ukraine.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

Charles Lewis is a veteran reporter and editor for such papers as the Ottawa Citizen and National Post. He flies a Ukrainian flag at his Toronto home in honour of his Ukrainian grandfather Joseph, who fled the Russians in the 1920s. Lewis is now retired and writes mainly for the Catholic press

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FULL FORCE: Exclusive Film Screening & Meet-and-Greet with Ukrainian Pilots

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We invite you to special screenings of “Full Force“, a gripping aviation action documentary that showcases the resilience and heroism of the Ukrainian Air Force during the most critical moments of Russia’s full-scale invasion—along with a true love story.

The documentary “Full Force” chronicles significant operations, including the defence of Kyiv, the battles for Zmiinyi Island, and audacious missions behind enemy lines. A team of Ukrainian pilots will accompany the film in Canada, aiming to share their powerful stories to unite Canadian communities and raise funds for humanitarian needs. 

You will have a unique opportunity to meet real heroes, engage in conversation, and ask any questions that come to mind while watching the film. Veterans Liubarets Mykola, Liubarets Yuliia, Chaika Maksym, Rakita Yevhen, and Timur Fatkullin will be present to share their personal experiences from the largest war in Europe since WWII.

Seats are limited — secure yours now and take part in an event that honours bravery and commemorates sacrifice. 

Your attendance is more than just watching a film — it’s a way to stand with those who risk everything. All profits go directly to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation to support humanitarian initiatives.

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Background

Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) – founded in 1995, CUF has a strong track record of providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine in the areas of healthcare, education and civil society. CUF collaborates with aid providers in Ukraine, Canada, and beyond to maximize impact and cost-effectiveness of your support.

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FROM BATTLEFIELD MEDIC TO CHAMPION

Meet Inna – Ukrainian Combat Medic

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Even the bravest warriors face battles that go beyond the frontlines. Today, we would like to share the inspiring journey of Inna, a 26-year-old Ukrainian combat medic whose story embodies courage, resilience, and the healing power of sport.

A multitalented professional from Odesa, Inna built an impressive civilian career spanning public service, journalism, education, and entrepreneurship. Working as a coordinator at an international educational center, a producer and journalist on television, a music therapist for children, and even running her own Social Media Marketing studio, she channeled her diverse skills and compassionate nature into helping and serving others.

Inspired by friends already serving, Inna made the courageous decision to join the Ukrainian Armed Forces. As a combat medic, she faced the unimaginable daily—organizing evacuations of the wounded and fallen from the most dangerous battlefields including Vovchansk, Bakhmut, Soledar, and Mariinka. Her commitment to saving lives continued until November 2023, when near the village of Rozdolivka in the Donetsk region, she sustained a gunshot wound to the neck and a concussion.

For Inna, swimming and alpine skiing aren’t just sports—they’re pathways to recovery. The Invictus Games represent more than competition; they offer a chance to heal alongside fellow veterans and build lasting emotional resilience. Through her participation this past February, she transformed physical challenges into triumphs of the human spirit.

Even The Brave Struggle reminds us that acknowledging our mental health challenges doesn’t diminish our strength—it reveals our humanity. Inna’s journey shows us that with support, determination, and courage, we can overcome life’s most daunting obstacles and find new purpose.

Become a part of someone’s healing journey. Your donation to the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal’s Even the Brave Struggle campaign, running until April 6th, 2025, will help provide mental health services and rehabilitation to veterans and address other urgent humanitarian needs in Ukraine. Your contribution today will be doubled thanks to the Myhal Family Foundation, which is generously matching donations up to $1 million until April 6th.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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Healing the Invisible Wounds of War

LAST CHANCE TO MAKE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS FOR 2024

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Some battles continue long after soldiers leave the battlefield. For the brave defenders of Ukraine, the war doesn’t end when they return home. The psychological toll of combat—PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse—can be just as devastating as physical injuries, yet these wounds remain largely invisible. We can fund programs that address psychological injuries through your support of the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. Our partner organizations, such as the Nazareth Charitable Foundation in the Lviv region, continue to make remarkable progress in providing comprehensive care to veterans and their families.

In just six months, the Nazareth team provided over 800 individual and family counseling sessions to veterans suffering from war trauma. They conducted 448 group therapy sessions for 27 veterans and their families, delivering specialized care that addresses the unique challenges these heroes face. For 13 veterans battling substance abuse challenges, Nazareth had implemented targeted recovery programs that included therapeutic groups and specialized training sessions.

The physical aspects of recovery received equal attention, with 493 physical therapy services delivered to help veterans heal both mind and body. One of the most innovative and effective approaches has been equine-assisted therapy, with approximately 330 sessions provided. This unique form of therapy has proven remarkably effective for PTSD treatment, allowing veterans to form healing bonds with horses in a calm, supportive environment. Behind these services stand dedicated professionals who have been equipped with specialized training in trauma-focused therapy, ensuring the highest quality care for those who have sacrificed so much for their country. 

For those struggling with substance abuse, the program provides specialized addiction recovery programs that include elements of the “12 steps” program and specific training sessions such as “Finding motivation for sobriety” and “Emotional competence.” The team recognizes that addiction often stems from attempts to cope with war trauma, and they address these issues with compassion and expertise. Despite these successes, many veterans remain hesitant to seek help due to stigma surrounding mental health issues, as well as the lack of access to such services.

The need remains urgent. We aim to expand these life-saving services to reach more veterans and their families. Your donation to the Even the Brave Struggle campaign, running until April 6th, 2025, will help provide continued specialized training for mental health professionals, expanded therapy programs for veterans and their families, and additional resources for holistic rehabilitation services. Your contribution today will be doubled thanks to the Myhal Family Foundation, which is generously matching donations up to $1 million until April 6th.

By donating today, not only will your contribution be doubled, but thanks to a special extension from the Government of Canada, donations made before February 28, 2025, can be applied to the 2024 fiscal year. This means your contribution today, in 2025, will also qualify for your tax filing for 2024.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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CANADIANS CONTINUE TO STAND WITH UKRAINE

Myhal Family Foundation matches donations through April 6th

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Three years ago, millions of Ukrainians woke up to Russian missile strikes.

Today, on this February 24th, we mark;

  • Three years of unwavering Ukrainian courage.
  • Three years of extraordinary generosity from Canadians.
  • Three years of Ukrainians demonstrating their values to the world.

You, too, can join thousands of Canadians supporting Ukraine through the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal’s “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign. Starting today, your impact will be doubled.

The Myhal Family Foundation matches every donation up to $1 million until April 6th.

As Canadians, we’ve shown that when human dignity and a rule-based order are at stake, our nation doesn’t simply offer sympathy – we take action. Today, one of Canada’s most respected voices has joined our cause. General Roméo Dallaire, a renowned humanitarian and mental health advocate, knows firsthand the invisible wounds of war. On the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion, General Dallaire delivers a powerful message about “Even the Brave Struggle” and his recent trip to Ukraine.

Thanks to Canadian generosity, together, we’ve already:

✓ Delivered and committed $93 million in humanitarian aid

✓ Reached 6 million people with critical aid

✓ Shown that Canada’s support never wavers

However, with international aid being uncertain from Ukraine’s number one ally, Ukrainians need the support of Canadians more than ever.

Your gift today to the “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign will be doubled, thus allowing us to deliver more support to those who need it the most.

From coast to coast to coast, Canadians have demonstrated remarkable compassion for Ukraine. Today, we can do even more. Every dollar makes a difference. Every gift saves lives. By donating today, not only will your donation be doubled, but thanks to a special extension from the Government of Canada, donations made before February 28th, 2025, can be applied to the 2024 fiscal year. This means your contribution today, in 2025, will not only help Ukrainians in need but also qualify for your tax filing for 2024.

When vulnerable communities in Ukraine need us, Canadians act.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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FROM CAPTIVITY TO THE INVICTUS GAMES

Meet Alla – Ukrainian Veteran

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Even the bravest warriors face battles that go beyond the frontlines. Today, we share the remarkable journey of Alla, a Ukrainian veteran whose story embodies resilience, courage, and the power of never giving up.

From Adventurer to Warrior 

An intrepid spirit from the Volyn region, Alla has always embraced life’s challenges head-on. Known for her rebellious nature and appetite for adventure, she channeled her natural intuition and strength into military service, serving with distinction in the 24th brigade from 2018 to 2021.

Rising to the Challenge 

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion, Alla didn’t hesitate. She immediately joined the Territorial Defense, putting her experience and courage to protect her homeland. However, in May 2022, during a daring breakout attempt from encirclement in Lyman, Donetsk region, she was captured by enemy forces.

Triumph Over Adversity 

For eight months and eleven days, Alla endured captivity. Yet her spirit remained unbroken. Upon liberation, she returned to service, now helping fellow veterans at the territorial recruitment and social support center in Volyn.

Finding Hope Through the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games became more than just a competition for Alla – it became a path to healing. Through her participation, she rediscovered her faith in society and justice. Today, she continues her mission, honoring the memory of fallen comrades by showing that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to persevere.

Even The Brave Struggle reminds us that acknowledging our challenges doesn’t diminish our strength – it reveals our humanity. Alla’s journey shows us that we can overcome life’s most daunting obstacles with support, determination, and courage.

Become a part of someone’s healing journey. Your support can help millions of Ukrainians endure during Ukraine’s darkest moments. Every contribution makes a difference in the lives of those who’ve given so much for their country.

Don’t forget that, thanks to a special extension from the Government of Canada, donations made before February 28th, 2025, can be applied toward the 2024 fiscal year. This means your contribution today, in 2025, will not only help Ukrainians in need but also qualify for your tax filing for 2024.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.

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Team Ukraine Triumphs at Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025

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As the curtain falls on the inspiring Invictus Games Vancouver-Whistler 2025, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Team Ukraine, whose stories of resilience and determination have touched hearts across our nation and beyond. Their presence on Canadian slopes and tracks was made possible through the unwavering support of the Temerty Foundation, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, and your generosity through the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, which played a pivotal role in facilitating their pre-games training camp. This comprehensive preparation period ensured Ukrainian veterans could compete at their highest level, resulting in outstanding performances across multiple disciplines.

Team Ukraine’s achievements were particularly poignant, with notable victories of 32 medals. Each medal represents not just athletic excellence but the indomitable spirit of a nation standing strong in the face of adversity. Their success was amplified by the Canadian community’s warm embrace, who came out in force to cheer on our Ukrainian friends.

From Vancouver’s urban venues to Whistler’s majestic slopes, the sight of Ukrainian blue and yellow uniforms created an unforgettable visual testament to the strong bonds between our nations. Local communities opened their hearts and homes, organizing welcome events, community dinners, and cultural exchanges that made Team Ukraine feel at home thousands of miles from their homeland.

Through the “Even The Brave Struggle” campaign, we work together to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by veterans and civilians, as well as the significance of providing comprehensive support for their recovery journey. This initiative has deeply resonated with communities across Canada, inspiring unprecedented support for the Ukrainian competitors.

As we bid farewell to the Invictus Games 2025, we celebrate more than just athletic achievements. We celebrate the power of sport to heal, unite, and inspire. The spirit of Invictus – “unconquered” – was truly embodied in every competition, every friendship formed, and every moment of triumph over adversity.

Your contribution to the “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign directly supports the expansion of mental health services for Ukrainians. While international standards recommend one mental health professional for every 70-90 service members, Ukraine’s current resources fall far short. With your help, we can bridge this gap and ensure Ukrainian veterans and civilians receive the care they’ve earned through their sacrifice. The people of Ukraine have shown incredible courage in protecting their homeland.

To make an impact and become a part of the “Even The Brave Struggle” campaign, visit cufoundation.ca and donate. Don’t forget that, thanks to a special extension from the Government of Canada, donations made before February 28th, 2025, can be applied toward the 2024 fiscal year. This means your contribution today, in 2025, will not only help Ukrainians in need but also qualify for your tax filing for 2024.

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Background

CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has been established jointly by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) to formalize a coordinated approach in providing humanitarian assistance quickly and efficiently to those in need in Ukraine to address any further aggression by Russia. The main efforts of cooperation are to provide humanitarian relief in the areas of assistance to displaced persons, medical care, emergency shelter and food security.