in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
May 29, 2023
One year ago, a small group of people from around Grey County got together with a mutual desire to help newly arrived Ukrainian families fleeing from the war. Within a couple of weeks this effort shaped into a project called the Ukrainian Village of Owen Sound (UVOS), which became an information community hub for newly arrived families. Through the immense support of the City of Owen Sound, many local businesses, community organizations (i.e. Salvation Army & local churches) and community members, UVOS was able to welcome six families into the area, offering them free accommodations, assistance with jobs, transportation, and day-to-day challenges.
The journey of the Ukrainian Village of Owen Sound started with the City of Owen Sound leasing a small, abandoned apartment building to Chapman’s Ice Cream (who agreed to support the cause) at $0 in early June. Renovations of the building took almost two months, transforming four apartments into functional and comfortable living spaces. Renovations involved dozens of volunteers from the area, local non-profit organizations (The Rotary Club of Markdale), and local businesses who offered generous donations (Benedict Electric, Greyfair Flooring, Valley Home Improvements and many more). After the renovations, newly arrived Ukrainian families moved into the building.
“Our team decided to focus on helping moms with young children. Due to the war, any men over 18 were not able to leave Ukraine and many women with children had to flee on their own with little means for survival. It was clear to us that this group would require the most help. Providing accommodations for the initial transition period was our main priority.” said Lesya Chapman, the president of UVOS.
UVOS and its volunteers focused on assisting newly arrived Ukrainians in finding jobs, learning English, processing all required paperwork, helping with legal advice, learning about Owen Sound, and meeting the community. The organization also worked closely with Grey Bruce Settlement and Language Services, who play a crucial role in assisting newcomers in the area.
“Fleeing from the war, I bought two tickets to Canada for myself and my daughter and flew there. I had nowhere to go after arriving in Canada. I had no acquaintances or relatives here. Thanks to UVOS, I received free housing in Owen Sound. I found a home and support from all sides and sources. Staying at the Ukrainian Village allowed me to start saving money for my own accommodations. When it was time for me to move on my own, volunteers collected all donations of furniture for my new place and helped me to settle down in my newly rented apartment. I can’t say enough kind words about Canadian volunteers and their big hearts,” said Marharita, one of the former residents of the Ukrainian Village.
While transition into the area was not always smooth and took time and effort from all, most of the Ukrainians have successfully settled in the area. Some decided to get full time jobs and some ventured into starting up their own small businesses. All children have successfully integrated into Canadian public schools and significantly improved their English level.
“It is wonderful to see these families getting comfortable in our area. It is so heartwarming to see them making friends and becoming a big part of our community. And it is very rewarding to see them becoming independent – that means that our efforts have not been in vain,” mentioned Marion Neisen, a Board Member of the Ukrainian Village of Owen Sound.
Olha Sukhina, one of the Ukrainians currently staying at UVOS noted: “Looking back on this year, I can confidently say that thanks to the Ukrainain Village fo Owen Sound, I found a lot of support and friends. I felt encouraged that I can open a business, that I can control my income and spend more time with my children. It gives strength to move on!”
UVOS’s support extended beyond six families in their care. Their Facebook page became an information hub for many newcomers, Canadian families hosting Ukrainians and community members who want to help. Many community donations have been distributed to other Ukrainian families in need. UVOS board members have been assisting other families around the region.
Moving forward, the Ukrainian Village of Owen Sound hopes to continue its operations for another year, while there are still many Ukrainian families trying to find safety outside of their country. As current residents of UVOS find their own accommodations, new families will be invited to move in. UVOS volunteers hope that this effort will allow these families to successfully settle in the area and become valuable members of our beautiful community. Donations and support are always welcome to keep this initiative moving forward.
For any information, volunteering or donations, you can reach the UVOS team by email: ukrainianvillageofowensound@gmail.com
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