Kelowna Hosts Food Fundraiser to Support Ukrainian Refugees

Advocacy group Kelowna Stands With Ukraine is set to host its third annual food fundraiser on December 19, 2023, at the First Baptist Church from 18:00 to 21:00. This event aims to provide humanitarian support for displaced Ukrainians both in Canada and those still in Ukraine. The buffet, prepared by Ukrainian chefs who relocated to Kelowna due to the ongoing conflict in their homeland, will feature authentic Ukrainian cuisine alongside local and Ukrainian musical performances.

Tickets for the buffet can be purchased through the Kelowna Stands With Ukraine Facebook group or directly at the event. Denys Storozhuk, a member of the organizing committee, emphasized the importance of securing tickets promptly as demand is expected to be high. Proceeds from the event will be directed towards humanitarian supplies for those affected by the war, and guests are encouraged to bring toys for a drive aimed at supporting displaced Ukrainian children living in Canada.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led Canada to welcome nearly 300,000 Ukrainians and their family members under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program since the Russian invasion began. Kelowna has emerged as a refuge for many fleeing the war, with local advocacy groups playing a crucial role in assisting newcomers to settle in the area. Storozhuk noted that his group has helped hundreds of Ukrainians find homes and adapt to life in the Okanagan region, which offers a climate similar to their native land.

As the war continues, many Ukrainian newcomers are beginning to engage more actively in community events, with the upcoming buffet marking a significant gathering for them in nearly two years. Shaman Gelblum, another member of Kelowna Stands With Ukraine, expressed a forward-looking perspective, stating, “The war will be over sooner or later… It can’t be forever.” He underscored the group’s evolving mission, which aims to provide assistance to Ukrainian civilians and newcomers in Canada, particularly as they navigate their future post-conflict.

The uncertainty surrounding the long-term status of Ukrainians in Canada remains a pressing issue. While the CUAET program has extended applications for new work permits until March 31, 2026, many Ukrainians still lack permanent residency, leaving their futures in limbo. Storozhuk highlighted the ongoing efforts of his group and others across Canada to advocate for a clear pathway to permanent residency for newcomers.

On December 17, 2023, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress drew national attention by urging the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to establish a pathway for permanent residency during a press conference in Ottawa. Despite these advocacy efforts, Storozhuk noted that many newcomers still carry a sense of unease and uncertainty regarding their acceptance in Canada. “All of them are uneasy,” he remarked, citing the stress caused by the ongoing conflict and concerns about their long-term future in their new home.

During the buffet, Storozhuk plans to address these challenges and discuss the collective push for clearer residency options, underscoring the resilience and community spirit of both the Ukrainian population and their supporters in Kelowna. This event not only serves as a fundraiser but also as a vital opportunity for connection and solidarity among those impacted by the war.