Category: News

Donate to ensure that Ukraine’s bravest don’t face their internal battles alone.

As Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine rages on for nearly the third year, the psychological toll of Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression continues to mount. Recent data reveals a staggering reality: between 60-80% of Ukrainians who witness battlefield deaths develop acute trauma symptoms. Behind these numbers are real people – brave defenders who now face a battle that doesn’t end when the shooting stops. The situation is particularly dire for young Ukrainians aged 18-24, who show higher rates of depression and trauma responses. Many suffer in silence, with 12-20% developing PTSD but choosing not to seek help due to stigma and fears about their military careers. This reluctance to seek support – driven by the same warrior spirit that makes them such formidable defenders – threatens to deepen the crisis.

The impact extends far beyond individual suffering. Ukrainian veterans experience anxiety and major depressive disorders at twice the rate of civilians, with substance use disorders occurring 2.3 times more frequently. These challenges don’t just affect the veterans – they ripple through families, communities, and the nation’s rebuilding ability. Experts predict that without intervention, Ukraine’s population could age 10-15 years faster than expected due to war-related stress, with diseases typically associated with older age appearing a decade earlier than usual. This presents an immediate crisis and a long-term challenge for Ukraine’s recovery and resilience.

Through the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, our “Even the Brave Struggle” campaign, running until April 6^th, 2025, will directly support mental health programs, rehabilitation services, and other essential humanitarian assistance for veterans and civilians affected by the war. The Ukrainian Ministry of Health projects that over 15 million Ukrainians will require psychological support, with veterans and service members facing the most acute challenges. Between 20-40% of these defenders require immediate psychological intervention, yet the current system can only provide one mental health professional for every 400-500 service members.

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.

Now it’s our turn to stand with them as they face the invisible wounds of war. Your support will provide:

• Mental health services for veterans and civilians
• Rehabilitation programs to aid recovery and reintegration
• Essential humanitarian assistance to war-affected communities

When we say Even the Brave Struggle, we acknowledge that seeking help isn’t a weakness – it’s another form of courage. Your donation helps ensure that Ukraine’s bravest don’t face their internal battles alone.

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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.

Mental Health Campaign to Support Veterans and War-Affected Communities

The Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF), through the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, is proud to announce the launch of its veterans rehabilitation and mental health campaign, Even The Brave Struggle, which will provide veterans access to critical support. The campaign, which launches today, coincides with CUF, the Temerty Foundation and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress’s (UCC) support of Team Ukraine at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, a global event celebrating recovery, resilience, and the unconquered human spirit.

Running until April 6, 2025, Even The Brave Struggle will highlight stories from veterans from Team Ukraine and feature highly respected Canadian military leader, humanitarian, and mental health advocate General Roméo Dallaire. General Dallaire has openly shared his own struggles with PTSD and operational stress injuries after his service in Rwanda, and continues to work tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the military. His commitment to rehabilitation and empowerment echoes the sentiments of the campaign.

“With this campaign, the Canada-Ukraine Foundation aims to help heal the wounds of war and provide hope to those in need, ”said Valeriy Kostyuk, Executive Director of the Canada-Ukraine Foundation. “Thanks to the unwavering generosity of Canadians, we can continue to ensure no one faces their internal battles alone.”

Even The Brave Struggle is dedicated to addressing the urgent need for psychological care, rehabilitation services, and humanitarian aid for those affected by Russia’s war on Ukraine. As veterans and civilians alike face the enduring impacts of the full-scale invasion, CUF is committed to ensuring they receive the specialized care and support they desperately need.

Funds raised from the campaign will directly support:

• Mental health services for veterans and civilians
• Rehabilitation programs to aid recovery and reintegration
• Essential humanitarian assistance to war-affected communities

Even The Brave Struggle reflects CUF’s unwavering dedication to fostering recovery and resilience of those impacted by the war. By addressing the psychological and emotional toll of war, the campaign aims to create a future where individuals and communities can thrive.

To donate and learn more about the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, please visit www.cufoundation.ca. Together, we can ensure that no Ukrainian faces their internal battles alone.

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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.

The Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) is proud to join the Temerty Foundation and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), in supporting Team Ukraine’s training camp in advance of the upcoming Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. This funding marks a significant commitment to supporting the resilience of Ukrainian veterans through the power of sport.

February 8 to 16, 2025, the world will gather in British Columbia for the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, an inspiring celebration of recovery, resilience, and the unconquered human spirit.

Featuring both traditional and winter adaptive sports for the first time, the Games welcome 550 competitors from 25 nations, including 35 veterans from Ukraine, the largest Ukrainian contingent in Invictus Games history.

Team Ukraine consists of 33 men and 2 women, recovering from physical and emotional injuries sustained in the ongoing war. Despite immense challenges, including an active war zone where even basic training is a luxury, Ukrainian veterans have shown extraordinary perseverance; CUF, the UCC and the Temerty Foundation are proud to support these veterans.

“Our goal is to show resilience and provide our competitors with the best possible experience on their journey to recovery,” said Ilona Voloshyna, Team Manager of Team Ukraine. “Thanks to the unwavering support of CUF, UCC, Temerty Foundation, and the Ukrainian community in Canada, we have been able to organize critical training camps, including one final camp before the Games.”

“Canada-Ukraine Foundation is honored to support the training camp of Team Ukraine ahead of this year’ s Invictus Games. This program exemplifies our commitment to supporting Ukraine’s wounded warriors, helping them transform their challenges into triumphs,”said Valeriy Kostyuk, Executive Director, Canada-Ukraine Foundation. “At the same time, we recognize the effects of war extend far beyond the battlefield. Which is why the Canada-Ukraine Foundation is committed to supporting Ukrainian veterans beyond the Invictus Games.”

To further support Ukrainian veterans, the Canada-Ukraine Foundation will be launching an initiative to address the urgent need for psychological care, rehabilitation services, and humanitarian aid for those affected by the war.

To donate and learn more about the CUF please visit www.cufoundation.ca.

To learn more about the Invictus Games, visit www.invictusgames2025.ca

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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.

About the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025

Presented by ATCO and Boeing, this seventh edition of the Invictus Games will feature six winter adaptive sports, including Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, Biathlon, Nordic Skiing, Skeleton, and Wheelchair Curling. As a first in the Games’ history, the event will emphasize outdoor sport and positive risk-taking, reinforcing the power of sport as a vehicle for recovery.

Ukraine has participated in the Invictus Games since 2017, and this year marks its fifth appearance, showcasing the resilience and willpower of its defenders. Digital campaigns featuring hashtags such as #volia, #iamwillpower, and #IG25 will promote the live stream and encourage public support for Team Ukraine.

About the Invictus Games 

The Invictus Games were founded by His Royal Highness The Duke of Sussex in 2014. They are an international event featuring adaptive sports for veterans and military personnel who have been injured, wounded, or fallen ill while performing their duties. The goal of the Invictus Games in Ukraine project is to create new opportunities for wounded and injured Ukrainian veterans and military personnel, supporting them on their journey to physical recovery, psychological rehabilitation, and social integration. The project team promotes the development and popularization of sports as an effective tool for recovery among injured soldiers and encourages society and the state to create the necessary conditions for this.

This winter has been particularly devastating for Ukraine’s power infrastructure. With over 13 massive attacks on energy facilities in 2024 alone, including the Christmas Day assault that saw 78 missiles and 106 combat drones targeting power stations, the need for reliable backup power has never been more critical.

Your incredible generosity has profoundly impacted the lives of countless Ukrainians. Together, through donations from across Canada, we raised a phenomenal $2.8 million for essential power equipment for Ukrainian hospitals and critical services during one of the most challenging winters they have faced. This remarkable achievement includes a $1 million contribution from Featherstone Estate Winery generously facilitated by the Myhal Family.

To learn more about Featherstone Estate Winery and explore their selection visit their website at https://featherstonewinery.ca/.  

Thanks to your donations, hospitals across Ukraine will continue performing life-saving procedures during blackouts. Emergency rooms remain operational, vital medical equipment stays powered, and patients receive the critical care they need. In cities like Mykolaiv and Kherson, where attacks are especially frequent, your support means the difference between life and death for many patients.

Your generosity will also help keep Ukrainian schools functioning through the darkness. Children can continue their education in warm, lit classrooms, maintaining a sense of normalcy despite the chaos around them. The generators and power stations you’ve helped provide will ensure that even during the harshest winter conditions and longest power outages, these essential institutions can continue serving their communities.

The impact of your support extends beyond just keeping the lights on. Each generator and power station you’ve helped fund represents hope and resilience for communities under constant bombardment. These vital power sources will ensure that families can stay warm, connected, and safe during the frequent blackouts that have become a daily reality in many parts of Ukraine.

As we look ahead, your contribution to the Power Up Ukraine campaign will continue making a difference throughout these challenging winter months and beyond. The equipment and infrastructure you’ve helped provide will serve as a lasting investment in Ukraine’s resilience. Thank you for standing with Ukraine when they needed it most. Your generosity has truly illuminated their darkness.

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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.

The Myhal Family Foundation was created by George and Rayla Myhal to assist in supporting causes within Canada that are Health and Education based. The foundation has worked with numerous hospitals in the GTA as well as educational institutions to help support, create and upgrade existing facilities and programs for the betterment of Canadians as a whole. Their work with the Ukrainian community has been extensive.

2024 CUF-UCC Winterization Campaign Brings Warmth to Thousands Across Ukraine

As winter blankets Ukraine in snow, we are filled with profound gratitude for your extraordinary support of our CUF-UCC Winterization Campaign. Thanks to your generosity and the remarkable matching pledges from the Myhal Family Foundation and the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation, we have raised over $2.3 million to help Ukrainians face another challenging winter with dignity and hope.

Your contributions have enabled us to launch comprehensive winterization initiatives across Ukraine, reaching those most in need. In the eastern regions, including Kharkiv, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhya, our partner “Be Free” distributed more than 1,950 wood-burning stoves and 1,450 essential power kits, each containing a power bank, solar battery, and USB flashlight, thanks to this year’s Winterization campaign. These vital supplies are helping families maintain warmth and light during frequent power outages caused by Russia’s deliberate attacks on energy infrastructure. 

In partnership with Medical Mercy Canada, CUF has funded the delivery of food and supplies, clothing, blankets, and stoves to 19 villages in the Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odesa regions, where access to basic necessities remains challenging. Funding was also allocated to initiatives such as blood transfusion training & kits, virtual consultations with doctors, as well as training for firefighters in bleeding control and technical rope rescue. 

Education hasn’t been forgotten – through Finn Church Aid, we’ve supported schools in Kharkiv and Chernihiv with charging stations, LED lights, and thermal equipment, helping children continue their studies despite the harsh conditions. 

In Dnipropetrovsk, we’ve funded Daruj Dobro’s establishment of a year-long food support program of 3,500 units for internally displaced persons, while City of Goodness’ crisis shelters have received financial support for crucial supplies including generator fuel, food, medicines, and hygiene products.

With the help of charitable foundation Mamay, ambulances in the Kherson region were outfitted with 37 solar-power stations from Ukraine-based New Use Energy. The Association Internationale De Cooperation Medicale (AICM) is delivering 50 units of essential intermediate equipment for surgery and emergencies, such as ECGs and defibrillators, to hospitals in eastern Ukraine.

The scope of our support has truly been nationwide, touching communities from Lviv to Zaporizhzhia, and from Sumy to Odesa. Working with trusted partners like Podilska Perlyna, “Be Free”, Finn Church Aid, and other local organizations, we’ve ensured that aid reaches those who need it most—efficiently and effectively.

Looking ahead, while our Winterization campaign has concluded, the need for humanitarian aid in Ukraine continues. Many of our initiatives will run through the spring providing sustained support to communities. The challenges remain significant, but your generosity has helped create warm, safe spaces where families can find comfort and hope. We invite you to continue supporting these vital efforts by donating and sharing our mission with your networks.

From all of us at the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, thank you for standing with Ukraine and helping to keep families warm this winter.

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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.

The Myhal Family Foundation was created by George and Rayla Myhal to assist in supporting causes within Canada that are Health and Education based. The foundation has worked with numerous hospitals in the GTA as well as educational institutions to help support, create and upgrade existing facilities and programs for the betterment of Canadians as a whole. Their work with the Ukrainian community has been extensive.

The Canada-Ukraine Foundation has joined forces with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress in calling for urgent action to protect Ukrainian newcomers in Canada.

Earlier this week, we sent a letter to Immigration Minister Marc Miller requesting an immediate three-year extension of work permits for approximately 300,000 Ukrainians who arrived through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program.

Why This Matters:

• Many CUAET holders will soon see their work permits expire

• Without an extension, families face losing their jobs, homes, and stability

• These newcomers have become vital members of our communities

• The CUF has invested over $3 million in settlement support for Displaced Persons

What We’re Asking For:

An automatic 3-year extension of:

• CUAET visas

• Work permits

• Associated benefits

How You Can Help:

1. Share this message with your networks

2. Contact your local MP to express support for the extension

3. Visit cufoundation.ca to learn more about our ongoing support programs

Together, we can ensure that Ukrainian families who have already endured so much can continue building their lives here in Canada.

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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.

For the third year in a row, Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation is supporting CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal through its 50 / 50 raffle.

Every donation you make becomes a lifeline for Ukrainians – whether it is delivering urgent medical supplies to civilians, supporting the mental and physical well-being of veterans, providing shelter and food for families displaced from their homes, or ensuring that essential services reach those in need during this critical time.

As the largest 50/50 raffle in professional sports, fans in Alberta will have the chance to win big all season long. The record breaking 50/50 raffle will also raise important dollars for the EOCF to reinvest in the community.

Tickets can be purchased by individuals 18 years or older, located within Alberta’s provincial borders at the time of purchase. All ticket sales are final and ticket buyers will receive a receipt via email after purchasing that will list all numbers associated with the purchased tickets.

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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.

Final Day to Demonstrate Remarkable Solidarity

The incredible spirit of Canadian generosity has shone through once again as the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal’s “Power Up Ukraine” campaign enters its final day. In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity, so far, over 4,000 individual donors from coast to coast to coast have united to support vital infrastructure projects in Ukraine. This campaign has received transformative support from several major donors, including the Walsh Foundation, Wheeler Family Foundation, Gordon and Jill Rawlinson, and a few well-meaning Anonymous Givers whose leadership gifts have significantly amplified the campaign’s impact. We are immensely grateful for the kindness of every single donor who has donated towards helping Ukrainians.

This outburst of support will enable CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal to launch a robust program focused on critical electrification needs in the coming months. The initiative will prioritize healthcare facility independence through backup power systems and ensure sustainable access to essential services like water supply for vulnerable communities. Through this campaign, we will be able to ensure that essential services can continue even in challenging circumstances. This approach will help protect vulnerable populations and strengthen community resilience across Ukraine.

The overwhelming response to the “Power Up Ukraine” campaign reflects the deep connection between Canadians and Ukraine. It once again demonstrates how Canadians can come together even in challenging times. Through these contributions, Canadians are helping to build a more resilient Ukraine, one donation at a time. This is exactly what being Canadian is all about.

Time is running out, but there’s still a chance to participate in this transformative initiative. Thanks to a special extension from the Government of Canada, donations made before February 28^th, 2025, can be applied toward the 2024 fiscal year. This means your contribution today, in 2025, will not only help power up Ukraine but also qualify for your tax filing for 2024.

🎉 WINNERS ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce the lucky winner of our recent fundraising draw! Your generous donations are making a real difference in supporting Ukraine, and we’re excited to reward two of our amazing donors with these fantastic prizes donated by our wonderful Ukrainian-Canadian businesses.

Cheers to You, Our Zirkova Family!

At Zirkova, we’ve always believed in celebrating life’s incredible moments with those we love. But the past year hasn’t been easy. With the ongoing challenges in Ukraine, we’ve faced supply chain hurdles, production delays, and heartbreaking stories from our homeland. Through it all, one thing has kept us going: you.

Your support for Ukraine and Ukrainian-made products has been nothing short of inspiring. You’ve chosen Zirkova not just for its exceptional taste, but for what it represents—resilience, hope, and a connection to something bigger. We can’t thank you enough for standing with us.

A special shoutout to LISSETH from London, Ontario, who won our Vodka Experience! Fun fact: London is where our co-founder Katherine grew up, so this win feels incredibly serendipitous. While we wish we could throw a vodka party for everyone, the next best thing is hosting your own Vodka Experience at home—and we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you make it amazing.

For the Vodka Aficionados:

Zirkova One is perfect for sipping straight, enjoying on the rocks, or crafting the perfect classic martini. Here’s how to make it. Due to supply challenges, you’ll start seeing more of Zirkova One in the 1.14L format—more vodka, more love! Find it here.

For the Cocktail Creators:

Zirkova Together isn’t just vodka; it’s the secret ingredient that takes your cocktails to the next level. Exceptional and designed to shine in every drink, Together does what no other vodka can. Find recipes, videos, and more here.  Shop Together.

For the Bold and the Curious:

Zirkova Unity is a story of survival and collaboration – a uniquely Ukrainian-Canadian vodka hand-crafted by our Ukrainian Master Distiller here in Canada using the best Saskatchewan wheat from the heart and blended with ater sourced from the Canadian Shield. It’s a testament to resilience and unity. Discover its inspiring story.  Find Unity here in Ontario and at Liquor Marts in Manitoba here… https://www.liquormarts.ca/product/zirkova-unity-vodka/750-ml-0. It is also available at select stores in Saskatchewan.

To do a vodka comparison at home with Zirkova One and Zirkova Together, Join John and Katherine here!

Every sip of Zirkova is a toast to the incredible people who’ve supported us, stood with Ukraine, and believed in the power of togetherness. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’ll keep raising our glasses—and our spirits. 🥂

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated – your support means the world to Ukrainians in need. Canada Ukraine Foundation is incredibly grateful to Perogie Lili and Zirkova Vodka for their generous prize donations. These Ukrainian-Canadian businesses continue demonstrating their commitment to our community and Ukraine through their ongoing support.

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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.

Your Support is Critical

When winter strikes in Canada, we reach for our thermostats, bundle up in warm clothes, and know that a hot tea awaits us after a chilly day. But imagine if that simple comfort was no longer guaranteed – if the switch on your thermostat didn’t do anything at all, and the promise of warmth remained unfulfilled. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario – it’s the daily reality for millions of Ukrainians.

While we may not always be content with our hydro bills, Ukrainian families face a different kind of winter calculation: how many hours of electricity they might have today, whether their local hospital’s generator will hold out through emergency surgeries, or if their children will be able to do homework before darkness falls.

For almost 3 years, Russia’s targeted attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have transformed everyday life into a constant struggle for survival. Hospitals perform critical procedures under emergency lights, elderly residents climb countless stairs in pitch-dark buildings, and families huddle together in freezing apartments, waiting for power to return. But amidst this darkness, there’s hope – and it comes in the form of concrete action from Canadians like you.

Your past generosity through CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has powered resistance and resilience across Ukraine. Our collective impact is undeniable.

In the darkest moments of 2022, with the support of NGO Initiative E+, we installed 60 generators in hospitals, keeping medical equipment running and saving lives daily. Picture a premature baby whose incubator stays powered through blackouts or emergency surgery completed despite missile strikes nearby.

For Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy, we’ve provided 50 industrial-grade generators with light masts, helping maintain essential services in the most vulnerable communities. These aren’t just machines—they’re lifelines that keep water pumping, communications running and hope alive.

We’ve also reached into homes, with the support of Global Medic, delivering 46 generators to war veterans’ families. This ensures that those who’ve sacrificed everything for their country don’t face winter’s challenges alone.

This $1.5 million initiative has already transformed countless lives. But with just 72 hours left in our Power Up Ukraine fundraiser, we’re reaching out with urgency – because more communities are waiting for help. The contrast between our Canadian winter experience and Ukraine’s reality is stark. While we can count on basic services, Ukrainians count the minutes between blackouts. While our biggest winter worry might be a delayed flight or icy roads, Ukrainian families worry about survival itself.

You can help bridge this gap. Your contribution today can help keep a hospital running, a family warm, or a community connected. We have three days left to make a difference.

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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.

Let’s Power Up Ukraine Together!

As Canadians huddle in our warm homes during these bitter winter months, millions of Ukrainians face their most challenging year yet for their energy system. While we casually flip switches to light our rooms and turn up thermostats when the chill creeps in, Ukraine has endured 13 massive attacks on its energy infrastructure in 2024 alone, with Russia launching nightly drone strikes and combining these with various types of missiles during more extensive assaults. On Christmas Day alone, Russia launched a devastating attack using 78 missiles and 106 combat drones, leaving countless families in darkness and freezing temperatures.

The scale of destruction in 2024 has been unprecedented, with Ukraine losing 9 gigawatts of power generation capacity – enough to power millions of homes. Since October 2022, Russia has carried out over a thousand strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, with attacks intensifying and becoming more sophisticated. Picture your own family trying to survive winter nights without heat, where temperatures plummet well below freezing. This is not a hypothetical scenario – this is the daily reality for millions of Ukrainians who are showing incredible resilience in the face of these challenges.

Ukrainian energy workers are fighting a heroic battle. They work around the clock to maintain and repair critical infrastructure under constant threat of attacks. While we rely on electricity to power our daily lives in Canada—from brewing our morning coffee to keeping our phones charged for emergency calls—these dedicated workers risk their lives to ensure that Ukrainians can maintain some semblance of normal life. Thanks to their tireless efforts, Ukraine’s energy system remains intact. Despite the relentless attacks, it continues providing electricity to essential services and heat to consumers with great limitations.

The time to act is now—the CUF-UCC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal “Power Up Campaign” ends on January 12th. With just five days remaining, your support is crucial in providing essential power equipment, generators, critical infrastructure, and essential services to the most vulnerable Ukrainian communities. Together, we can help keep the lights on in Ukraine when they need it most! Remember: The Government of Canada has extended the deadline for charitable tax receipts for the 2024 tax year. Your donation today will be eligible for a tax receipt that can be used for your 2024 tax filing.

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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.