As many of you may know, Kitt Brand actively supports various causes and Ukraine has found its way into her heart. Supporting relief efforts in that country is a mission she has grabbed on to and fervently promotes. Today, she provided an update on a project she was involved in supporting and asked for our support in another that directly benefits the children of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Rehabilitation Hospital Project

After the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, refugees began arriving in Alberta which happens to be the home of the largest Ukrainian diaspora outside of Ukraine itself. A fellow Rotarian and philanthropist from Calgary, Gerry Darichuk got involved coordinating support programs for the arriving displaced newcomers as well as spearheading fundraising programs to deliver essential medical supplies to Ukraine. With the support of Air Canada for cargo transport, Gerry travelled to Ukraine to personally deliver the first load of supplies. That visit unexpectedly led to a tour close to the front lines where he witnessed for himself the supplies needed to keep wounded soldiers and civilians alive until they could be treated for their wounds. He also saw the lack of infrastructure to support the wounded in their journey to rehab from their injuries and regain control of their lives. That visit was a catalyst.

On his return, Gerry led an effort to raise $750,000 to acquire, renovate/restore and equip a rehabilitation hospital in Kiev. This endeavor was supported by the city of Kiev, various levels of government, private contributions from Ukraine, Rotary clubs from Kiev, Sweden and two Alberta Rotary districts - 5360 and 5370. The result was a success! So much so, it was replicated in two other locations in Ukraine and five more hospitals are in the works to come on line next year. 

Being able to be a part of such impactful work should inspire every Rotarian and sustain the flame we all have to help and improve the world around us.

The story doesn't end here though….beyond physical injuries, war creates significant mental health crises. There is one now amongst Ukrainian children.

The trauma of war is not confined to the front lines. Missile and drone attacks on communities all over Ukraine have brought the war to everyone's doorsteps and exposed the children of Ukraine to horrors no child should have to face. War causes civilian displacement as people flee the fighting or their homes and communities are destroyed by means such as artillery and rockets. 1.8 million Ukrainian children are refugees abroad and 2.5 million remain in the country trying to live, learn and play. War also brings about food uncertainty as the usual methods of food production and distribution are disrupted. Acquisition of food becomes a daily challenge. War also results in survival living…living, eating, sleeping in whatever shelter is available. Missile and drone attacks make schools vulnerable so children are forced below ground…recess is not time on the playground. Lastly, the constant fear of death, dismemberment or mutilation and loss of friends and family induces a constant high anxiety/fear state in children. All of these factors are combining to produce a mental health crisis for the children of Ukraine.

But there is hope….you! Every bit of support from people like us facilitates mental health programs with professional counselling, therapeutic play, community and most of all, some time to just be a kid and have fun! We are also supported by an international of Rotarians from Ukraine, Sweden and North America, private donors, business groups, humanitarian groups and secure financial management of donations via the Rotary Club Hjo of Sweden.

• Contact Kitt Brand for information about projects that specifically interest you - kittbrand@gmail.com
• Visit Rotary Club of Kyiv Capital Facebook
• Donate at SaveUkraine.org
• Magnify your gift by joining a Rotary project!