Kelowna residents are invited to stand in solidarity and celebrate the tenacity of Ukrainians who have been displaced by Russia’s invasion.
On Friday, Feb. 24, Kelowna Stands with Ukraine (KSWU) is hosting a candlelight vigil at the St. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church at 1935 Barlee Road to mark one year of Russia’s invasion.
The vigil will be held outdoors, starting at 5:30 p.m.
Candles will be available by donation at the event in addition to flags and stickers.
“It’s just a moment of remembrance,” said Dennis Stor, founder of Kelowna Stands with Ukraine.
Displaced Ukrainians who fled their war-torn country for the Okanagan will be at the event.
READ MORE: ‘Desperate’ need for immediate refugee housing: Kelowna Stands With Ukraine calls for help
Stor said that photos of the vigil will be sent to those fighting on the front lines of the war in Ukraine to show them that people around the world are standing behind them and to boost morale.
READ MORE: Vigils for anniversary of Ukraine invasion planned in B.C. communities
On Saturday Feb. 25, the Bravery Foundation is hosting a Ukrainian expo at the Dormition Mother of God Catholic Church at 1091 Coronation Avenue.
At the expo there will be a photo booth with traditional Ukrainian garb, displays, specialty item sales, food and an auction to raise money for relief efforts.
The event also has the support of Kelowna’s three Liberal MLA’s.
“The Bravery Foundation based in Kelowna is a testament to the selflessness, kindness, and generosity that the communities in the Okanagan region have shown to the victims of this brutal invasion…we encourage all those able to support their cause,” reads a letter from Renee Merrifield, Norm Letnick, and Ben Stewart.
“We thank all of the staff, volunteers, and supporters for their exceptional work in making Kelowna and the Okanagan a better place for all. We wish everyone a successful event and we wholeheartedly support all those facing fear and violence back in Ukraine.”
Admission to the expo is by donation.
All funds raised at the two events will be used to support displaced people and those on the front lines in Ukraine.
READ MORE: ‘I couldn’t get over it’: Castlegar mother heads to the front lines of Ukraine
READ MORE:Ukrainian newcomers assess options in Canada year after war at home
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Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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