It has been 1135 days since Ukraine was invaded. During that time, whole towns were leveled, schools and hospitals were struck repeatedly with missiles, and civilians were specifically targeted, including the children. The feeling of helplessness was overwhelming at times.
For three years, St. John’s has made a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable Ukrainians through our Ukraine Support Group. We have raised critically needed funds through both direct appeal and the sale of artisan-designed-and-made handicrafts. By the end of 2024, our congregation had raised over $60,000. So far in the first three months of 2025, we have already raised almost $20,000!
Our first large purchase in 2022 was a fully equipped armored ambulance, capable of working the front lines. Last year, we began to focus on children for whom help is not always available. They include disabled children, students at a small village school with their new desks and chairs, and an at-risk newborn, who weighed just 3.08 pounds at birth and was helped by one of the four Neonatal Resuscitation Systems we donated. [See pictures.]
Unfortunately, the need will exist for some time. St. John’s, through the Ukraine Support Group, will continue to help Ukraine’s most vulnerable children in every way possible. This support, coordinated by our partner, St. Andrew’s Humanitarian Center, will include specialized equipment and therapy for disabled children and those with partial paralysis. Also provided will be pediatric surgical instruments for a children’s hospital that was heavily damaged in missile strikes, and a medical system to maintain an expectant mother’s body temperature in emergency situations, enabling her to deliver a healthy baby.
The tangible results of our efforts are clearly evident.
To continue supporting children with special needs in Ukraine, St. John's Ukrainian Support Group and its partner, St. Andrew’s Humanitarian Center, are offering a Ukrainian Easter Bakery & Boutique in the West Ave. Lobby on Sunday, April 6, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The sale will feature delicious Ukrainian Easter bread and unique, hand-crafted treasures. Cash, checks, and credit cards are all welcome, and all proceeds will go directly to the programs mentioned above.
- Rob Hartmann and Sandie Stoianovici, Co-Chairs, St. John's Ukrainian Support Group
Questions?
Complete this form to connect with parishioners Sandie Stoianovici and Rob Hartmann.