Remember her Courtney Comox Mr Speaker on Sunday I had a great opportunity to meet displaced ukrainians who settled in the Comox Valley Oxana Massie Ava. Apologies for mispronouncing names, herself, a displaced, Ukrainian, translated in a room eager to speak with me. Oksana is the integration coordinator hired by the Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society, with funding from the provincial Refugee Readiness program.

The meet and greet I attended is held monthly in the Comox Valley Presbyterian Church, thanks to congregant Mary bitrov I first met Mary at a meeting sparked last year by Courtney Mayor Bob Wells, an expectation of an influx of ukrainians. Those who had something to offer came out and a network began to grow.

Relentless Eugene from the Comox Valley Ukrainian Society was quick to connect with a proud Ukrainian Heritage. The small group of 17 with no Ukrainian language could not have foreseen the critical role they would play. Their numbers have grown to about 60 members and their efforts are nothing short of a miracle.

Jeanette Martin Luther president Donna badoc secretary treasurer Leah Carlos, along with Eugene, are all Hands-On Leaders with the youth Society working to support 145 displaced ukrainians, Gloria Laura palahiki has organized English classes, she's also undertaken the organization of a pierogi and holupchy dinner fundraiser through covet 19. with cars lined around town to pick up their dinners. When the food ran out, people still donated ongoing, fundraising, Saw 3 400 pierogies, made in one day this past weekend before he died.

As mayor Comox mayor Russ, Arnot made sure Town facilities were available to support our new Ukrainian neighbors and there's so much more. That's been done. A candlelight vigil is planned for 5 PM on Friday February 24th at come walks Marina Park, the first anniversary anniversary of the war, a time to stand in solidarity and join in community efforts to help displace two cranians Builder their new lives. Here. Thank you. Mr Speaker.