Holiday spirit embraces newcomers

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This article was published 28/11/2022 (1067 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Teddy bears, monster truck toys and dolls — simple gifts that can make all the difference for children in need.

In the lead-up to Christmas, Winnipeg’s branch of the Ukrainian National Federation is hosting a toy drive in support of Ukrainian families who have recently arrived in Manitoba, many of whom have fled the horrors of war.

“Everyone has seen so much turbulence and upheaval this year. At this time of celebration, we want them to know that we care about them and welcome them to Manitoba,” said Joanne Lewandowski, UNF Winnipeg president.

The federation is asking for donations of new, unopened gifts, which its staff will wrap and give to Ukrainian children. There is also a need for winter gear, such as coats, ski pants, tuques, scarves and gloves.

More than 12,400 Ukrainians have made their homes in Manitoba since the Russian invasion, with more coming in weekly, Lewandowski said.

“I can’t imagine what it must be like for a person to be separated from their family by war… While Ukrainian families will face one of their greatest challenges this year, they will do so with the support of their newfound Canadian families.”

Jess Fuga, owner of Ever After Maternity, is among the hundreds of people who have already donated. Fuga has been collecting toys, diapers and monetary donations at her a maternity consignment boutique at 313 Kenny St.

She donated the goods, and 10 per cent of the weekend sales, to the UNF.

“It is such a staple (in the Ukrainian community) and a safe place for so many of us,” Fuga said. “It’s just such an amazing, tight-knit family that is so passionate about their culture. It couldn’t be more perfect timing to have that, with what’s happening now in Ukraine. Just to support is great.”

Fuga, who is Ukrainian, spent much of her youth at 935 Main St., where the UNF club is located. The building has long been home to the Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble.

Fuga learned to dance at the club and later met her husband there. Now, the couple’s two children are dancing, too.

Supporting the club was a “no-brainer,” she said.

“I just know they’ve been taken from their homes, and maybe are in between homes right now. That alone is traumatic. One thing you can’t away from a kid is the spirit of Christmas — so I feel like no matter where they are, as long as they have that, it will bring a smile to their face.”

Fuga’s donation, and all others like it, carries a message to incoming refugees.

“I hope you are happy and safe here, and I am glad you’re here. We are trying to do everything we can to make this transition as easy as possible, especially over the holiday season,” she said.

UNF is accepting donations at its Main Street location until Dec. 15. (Staff are on hand from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Presents will also be accepted Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.)

tyler.searle@freepress.mb.ca