On April 8, a front page article in the Washington Post reported a horrific Russian attack on a playground in Ukraine that left 20 dead, including nine children, and injuring 90 others. The United Nations Commission on Human Rights called it “the worst attack on juveniles since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.”
As Putin’s brutal land grab continues, Ukrainians need our help more than ever. And with your help, St. John’s Ukrainian Support Group continues to raise money for the people of Ukraine.
On Sunday, April 6, we sponsored a Ukrainian Easter Bakery & Boutique in the West Ave Lobby from 9 am to 2 pm. Thanks to the generosity of parishioners and members of the surrounding community, we raised over $8,600 in support of children with disabilities in Ukraine—children who are often among the most vulnerable and underserved. This amount is more than a number; it is a powerful expression of compassion and solidarity that will bring hope and tangible assistance to those facing overwhelming challenges. Your kindness helps meet urgent humanitarian needs and reminds our brothers and sisters in Ukraine that they are not forgotten.
Of course, we couldn’t have done it without our fundraising partner—St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral and Humanitarian Center—and especially Olena Poole and her volunteers from St. Andrew’s. They provided beautiful handicrafts and a mountain of delicious Easter breads, cakes, cookies, pastries, honey, fruit preserves, and more. The long lines to choose just the right delicacy are a testament to the fabulous selection of Ukrainian goodies that were offered!
In addition, Sandi Stoianovici, working with Ukrianian artisans, provided a fabulous selection of hand painted lacquerware, a huge selection of socks, special teas blended with Carpathian flowers, throws, purses, placemats, table runners, aprons, embroidered napkins—and colorful Easter baskets with Pysanky painted eggs, that made the perfect Easter gift and sold out in the first hour!
The Rector of St. Andrew’s, Father Volodomyr Steliac, had these words of thanks for St. John’s:
Our humanitarian team cannot stop saying enough nice things about St John’s team and wonderful volunteers from St. John’s who worked tirelessly to create a warm, inviting space and guide every visitor toward just the right gift or delicacy. The beautiful setup, the welcoming smiles, and the long lines for Easter breads, cakes, cookies, and crafts all spoke to the love and care poured into every detail. Together, we have created not only a successful fundraiser, but also a beautiful expression of unity and faith in action. As we move forward, we will be sure to share updates on how these funds are being used to directly impact the lives of children in Ukraine.
Thanks to all our volunteers and who worked tirelessly. And to all our shoppers, thanks for your gifts of love. Slava Ukraini! Glory to Ukraine!!
- Rob Hartmann and Sandie Stoianovici, Co-chairs, Ukrainian Support Group