Helping Displaced Ukrainians in Etobicoke

Like many Canadians, we watch with heavy hearts as the devastating events unfold in Ukraine. Markian and Oriana are both proud Ukrainian-Canadians who speak Ukrainian fluently. Their grandparents immigrated to Canada shortly after World War 2 but they still have many friends and family members in Ukraine, some of whom are fighting for their lives and their freedom back home. 

They are safe at the moment, but we don’t know what might happen in the weeks and months to come. So far, over 6 million people have fled Ukraine, some with little more than the clothes on their backs. 

There is one bit of good news that is bringing hope to some displaced by war. As of May 4, nearly 91,500 applications for temporary residence have been approved in Canada.

Many will settle in the GTA. Etobicoke especially has a large Ukrainian community, and we are moved to see how many of our neighbours are stepping up in this time of need.

How Can You Help?

If you are looking for ways to help local displaced Ukrainians, here are some resources to guide you.

Ukrainian Canadian Congress

Starting June 1, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress will begin accepting donations of new or gently used clothing for men, women and children. 

New items include underwear, towels, bedding, pillows, hairbrushes, shampoo, conditioner and soap. 

Please note that they are unable to process any more donations until after May 30. For more information, please visit their website at www.ucctoronto.ca.

Canada-Ukraine Foundation

The Canada-Ukraine Foundation delivers aid in Ukraine and the bordering countries where refugees seek safety. They are on the ground in the hardest-hit areas providing medicine, food, blankets, hygiene kits, diapers and other badly needed items to Ukrainians who are fighting for their country and their families. 

If you would like to make a donation, please visit their website at www.cufoundation.ca.

Saint Javelin

On February 16, former journalist Christian Borys launched Saint Javelin to support his friends and family in harm’s way in Ukraine. Originally, he hoped to raise $500. However, the site has since generated over $1 million in sales and contributions, with no sign of stopping. 

Their new mission statement is, “We are in business to rebuild Ukraine.” 

The site offers items for purchase, including clothing, stickers, flags, mugs, posters and more. You can browse their entire catalogue here. Proceeds will help fund humanitarian efforts and help rebuild Ukraine.

Ukrainian Schools

Many children who were forced to leave their homes can find themselves feeling lost and alone in a country where they don’t understand the language. That’s why we’re including this list of TDCSB Ukrainian heritage language schools. During these times, education and community are critical. Finding a place where they can speak their language will go a long way to helping these children feel welcome. All three of these schools are in Etobicoke and can return a sense of normalcy to displaced children.

St. Demetrius Catholic School

Markian and Oriana’s son attends this school, which has already registered 70 displaced children. Currently, St. Demetrius is accepting donations of clothing, educational toys, and hygiene items to help children and their families. So far, we have raised almost $7,000 in donations to help their cause. 

Here is a partial list of what they’re currently looking for (new items only, please):

• Navy blue shorts (size 4 to adult medium)
• Running shoes (children 13 to adult 6)
• Pyjamas (size 5 to adult small)
• Spring Jackets (size 4 to adult medium)
• Children’s socks
• Deodorant
• Hand Cream
• Sunscreen
• Lunchboxes
• Water bottles
• Walmart gift cards (any amount)
• Presto cards

St. Demetrius is located at 125 LaRose Ave in Toronto. You can find more information on their website or by calling 416-393-5384.

Josyf Cardinal Slipyj Catholic School

Josyf Cardinal Slipyj offers ESL courses to assist non-English speaking students who may be struggling. The school also teaches in the Ukrainian language depending on the degree of fluency of the students. Children in Kindergarten receive a half-day of Ukrainian immersion programs in addition to the regular JK/SK curriculum. 

The school is located at 35 West Deane Park Drive in Etobicoke. For information about admissions, visit their website here.

St. Josaphat Catholic School

Located at 110 Tenth St (just off Lakeshore and Islington Ave) in New Toronto, St. Josaphat is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment. Children from grades 1-8 spend at least half an hour a day studying the Ukrainian language and culture while JK and SK students receive a half-day of Ukrainian immersion programming. You can find admission information by visiting their admission page here.

Markian and Oriana have lived in Etobicoke for many years. A big part of their buying decision was based on how many resources there are for Ukrainian residents. However, it’s the overwhelming sense of community that has made this city feel like home. We are so happy to see all of our neighbours coming together to help Ukrainian families during this time.