Ukraine campaign by Canadian organization tops $4 million

Since Feb. 2022 Canadians have surpassed all fundraising expectations and donations to CNEWA Canada for emergency relief in Ukraine, now reaching some $5.8 million (one year later), distributed to church-based organizations on the ground like Caritas Ukraine. (Photo submitted by CNEWA)

Posted By: Kiply Lukan Yaworski June 9, 2022

Media release by Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA)

The Canadian office of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) has surpassed its matching campaign of $500,000 CAD, reaching a historic $4 million within the course of 100 days. CNEWA Canada reported June 8 that its national office continues to be overwhelmed by the generosity of Canadians from coast to coast.

Launched in the early weeks of February 2022, the fundraising effort is part of an ongoing response by Canadians to help the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church respond to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. This comes as the full-scale Russian invasion continues into its fourth month.

“Canadians care deeply about peace and humanitarian relief,” said Anna Dombrovska, Project Officer for Ukraine. “I’m continually inspired by the generosity and engagement of our Canadian donors and assure them we’re expending every effort to ensure that our collective contributions are used effectively in key areas of humanitarian relief, but also spiritual support during this great time of need.”

“The needs in Ukraine run deep and Canadians have stepped up and trusted us with their prayers and financial support,” added Msgr. Peter Vaccari, president of CNEWA.

“We’re working quickly to direct this aid to those who need it most through our partners on the ground in Ukraine as transparently and securely as possible.”

Even before the invasion, CNEWA began sending aid — upwards of $1.2 million — to its local partners in Ukraine such as Ukrainian Catholic University, Caritas Ukraine and its local branches, and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and its eparchies, hospitals and congregations.

These church-based partners provide emergency, humanitarian and pastoral support to Ukrainians from all walks of life through activities that include care for the displaced, elderly and sick, provisions of medical supplies, food, clothing and shelter, educational programs and support of local priests.

Donations can continue to be made online at cnewa.ca or by phone at 1-866-322-4441. Cheques can be mailed to CNEWA Canada at 223 Main Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 1C4, marked “Ukraine”. Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $10 or more.

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