2 bd 3 Continued from page 1 thursday, June 30, 2022 | B nity yen “to ‘be "0 “old = friends." & “Everybody's helping,” 2 she said, describing the outpouring of support for against ordinary citizens a 'shock" to the majority of the world. But in a sense, he said it brings people to- gether. “The community has rallied together," he said. different cultures. one: This includes accommoda- fon. fonations of summer clot! and stroller, and evena a laptop for her young daughter. As the war in Ukraine rages on, millions of fami- lies have been displaced from their homes, with more than five million peo- ple seeking refuge in other countries, according to the United Nations. Father Michael Loza from St. Joseph's Ukraini. an Catholic Church called the military invasion and indiscriminate cruelty there's bee a actor in coming together in times of diffi- ty — and chaos and war. The pastor said that the church has been organiz- ing medical supply drives, as well as social events to assist newly arrived Ukrai- nians settling in their new home. There's a psycholo- gist with a Ukrainian back- ground that comes to the weekly meeting to support newcomers dealing with rsonal tragedies. “Community members across the region have also Graham Paine/Metroland Father Michael Loza holds some of the artwork from students across Halton showing their support for the people of Ukraine. His church has been helping to welcome Ukrainian families who've fled the war. been stepping up — from art exhibits in Halton Hills for Ukrainian relief efforts to a young humanitarian collecting sleeping bags in Milton and Burlington. Halton Region recently allocated $1 million for a HALTON RALLYING TO AID UKRAINIAN FAMILIES transitional housing pro- gram that would provide about 50 holds an supportive housing for up to months. The initiative will be administered by the Hal- ton Multicultural Council. ting her paths to safety, Jane said it was for- tunate they got out of the be- sieged city in time, a mere day before the Mariupol the- atre, where many locals had sought shelter from shell- , was bombed. But leaving everything behind, including friends id family members, was bittersweet. With her reves set on the future, Jz aid her main focus is her d daughter, Kira, and son, Andrew dr. A budding gymnast, Ki- ra was part of the national gymnastics team and even set to compete abroad, the mom said. Jane is hopeful that there'salocalsports or club continue her dream. Mean- whil le, their son is recover- ing from encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain tissues, which requires treatment from a special- ist. As for Andrew, who is more fluent in English, he said he's working to get his driver's licence and other qualifications. Despite the challenges, Andrew and Jane are glad to have a roof over their heads and appreciate the kindness ofthe community — especially how the world hasnt forgotten about ‘inians. “The people here ... they do care about Ukrainian people," Jane said. STORY BEHIND THE STORY: We wanted to share the journey of a Ukrainian family who seeks refuge in Halton and how the region is support- ing those who fled the war. NEW PATIENTS WELCOME EMERGENCY APPOINTMENTS SAME DAY Locally Roasted Specialty Coffee DY-VINZ-1x-Ye comm Kole] mi DleXo) g MARKETPLACE DENTAL 280 Guelph St (in Georgetown Market Place) 905-877-CARE (2273) - www.georgetowndental.com Serving Halton Hi 1994 GIDDENS OPTOMETRY FAMILY EYE CARE SERVICES (oleh /i-N ¢-] 0) [er] Direct from the pelenay We are open but due to the current virus situation we have to limit the number of people in our office. Please contact us in advance and we will arrange an appointment time for you. This will prevent overcrowding and keep everyone safe! a= OPTOMETRY = DOWNTOWN GEORGETOWN METRO PLAZA 83 Mill St | 905 873 1867 371 Mountainview Rd S |905 873 1861 Day, Evening and Saturday Hours | Same day appointments for urgent eye care. Please phone. |, Dr. Andrea Kozma Dr. Ben Giddens Buy online at BLACKCREEKCOFFEE.COM Dr. Brandon Pham theifp.ca