The Archeparchy of Winnipeg is launching a special appeal to provide immediate humanitarian relief to internally displaced people (IDPs) affected by the war in Ukraine.

During a personal visit to Kharkiv from July 19–21, I met with Bishop Vasyl Tuchapets, exarch (bishop) of Kharkiv, and dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to distribute emergency aid to displaced families. Seeing their efforts firsthand highlighted just how immense and urgent the need is—especially with winter approaching soon.

In the Kharkiv region, over 520,000 people have been forced from their homes due to the war—with over 200,000 displaced individuals in the city of Kharkiv alone. As families continue to arrive daily from dangerous frontline villages and towns, basic survival items remain in critical demand.

Every Thursday, between 1,500 and 2,000 people gather at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in Kharkiv seeking assistance, particularly food, medicine, clothing, shoes, and other basic necessities.

Our Goal & The Plan

We are raising $30,000 to fund a full semi truck load (several tons) of essential supplies, including bulk food items, baby food, and other basic necessities. (Nota Bene: If we raise enough for two or three trucks, we will buy more supplies.)

• Parish Collections: Special collections will be taken across all Archeparchy parishes through Sunday, September 27.
• Direct Impact: In October, 100% of the funds will be transferred via CNEWA (Catholic Near East Welfare
  Association) directly to Bishop Vasyl Tuchapets in Kharkiv, who will purchase the necessary food and supplies locally.
• Long-Term Relief: Purchasing these supplies directly in Ukraine avoids shipping delays and will provide enough provisions to sustain thousands of displaced individuals at the Cathedral for 4 to 5 months.

How You Can Help
Please consider making a generous donation to help us reach our $30,000 goal. Your gift is a direct, meaningful way to stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and offer tangible relief to families who have lost everything.

• In Person: Place your donation in the Sunday collection basket using an envelope marked "Kharkiv Aid." (Make checks payable to your local parish).
• Deadline: September 27

Thank you for your ongoing prayers, generosity, and unwavering support for those in need.

August 10, 2026                                                                                                     Most Rev. Andriy Rabiy         
Archeparchial Administrator