Kelowna Hosts Ukrainian Food Fundraiser to Support Refugees

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

Attendees can look forward to enjoying traditional Ukrainian dishes, along with local and Ukrainian music performances. Art will also be on display and available for purchase. Tickets for the buffet can be reserved through the Kelowna Stands With Ukraine Facebook group or purchased directly online. Denys Storozhuk, a member of the advocacy group, emphasized the importance of purchasing tickets early, as the event is likely to sell out quickly.

Proceeds from the buffet will be directed toward providing humanitarian supplies for Ukrainian refugees. In addition, a toy drive will take place during the event, allowing guests to bring gifts for displaced children from Ukraine currently residing in Canada.

Support for Refugees Amid Ongoing Conflict

Since the onset of the war in Ukraine nearly four years ago, Canada has welcomed close to 300,000 Ukrainians and their family members through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. Kelowna has emerged as a refuge for many fleeing the violence, with local advocacy groups playing a significant role in helping newcomers settle in the region.

Storozhuk noted that the group has assisted hundreds of Ukrainians in adapting to life in the Okanagan Valley, promoting the city as a welcoming place with a climate reminiscent of Ukraine. While their activities peaked during the early stages of the war, the focus has since shifted as many newcomers have concentrated on finding jobs and establishing their families. He stated, “For a couple of years, (Ukrainian newcomers) were so occupied with settling, finding jobs, bringing kids to school, accommodation. And now they are kind of starting to breathe again.”

The upcoming buffet represents a significant opportunity for Ukrainians in Kelowna to reconnect with the community after a prolonged period of adjustment. Shaman Gelblum, another member of Kelowna Stands With Ukraine, expressed optimism about the future. He articulated a vision for the group that he calls “the next day,” anticipating that the war will eventually end and that ongoing support will be essential for rebuilding lives in Ukraine.

Uncertain Future for Newcomers

While the CUAET program has extended applications for new work permits until March 31, 2026, many Ukrainians still face uncertainty regarding their permanent residency in Canada. As the war continues, there are mixed feelings among those who may wish to stay and those who hope to return home after the conflict subsides.

The urgency of the situation gained national attention on December 17, 2023, when the Ukrainian Canadian Congress publicly called on the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to establish a pathway to permanent residency for Ukrainian newcomers during a press conference in Ottawa. Storozhuk highlighted the anxiety felt by many in the community, stating, “All of them are uneasy. (Because of) the war that’s happening in their home country, it’s a stress that they don’t know whether they will be accepted in Canada for the long-term.”

As the buffet approaches, Storozhuk plans to address these pressing issues, further emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and support for Ukrainian refugees. The event promises not only to raise funds but also to strengthen community ties and provide hope for a brighter future for those affected by the conflict.