4 minute read
Sharing Love for Ukraine from the Kalyna Country Quilters
Sharing Love for Ukraine from the Kalyna Country Quilters
Elaine Bartee and Kaitlyn Kruk - Submitted
The Kalyna Country Quilting Guild is a group of about 14 women, who focus their efforts in bring help, support and comfort where it is needed. The Kalyna women are constantly in search of those who are in need.
They make quilts to give foster children, and to women's shelters. Support pillows for transplant patients, and warm, cozy quilts for seniors in care facilities. They do not work alone. Angels who have a common goal are also in the mix. People like Lyn and Kristen Yaremchuk, who have donated 40 quilts to the latest cause. As well, Dana Stewart who produces countless quilts for so many charitable causes.
On Sunday, October 29th, several women from the Kalyna Country quilting guild, and others who are involved in this shared venture, had the pleasure of meeting with Kaitlyn Kruk, formerly of Vegreville, and a member of the Ukrainian Patriots (UP).
Kaitlyn at only 27-years-old, speaks passionately and eloquently of the work that Ukrainian Patriot are doing to help and support the people of Ukrainian. At a time when their country is in dire need, due to the war and violence inflicted upon their country, Ukraine Patriot has been able to connect with so many people, raise funds and goods to aid in their mission to support Ukraine.
Kaitlyn, confident in the people of Ukraine to be victorious in their defence of their country, has conveyed to us the appreciation they have for the help, support and love they have received from Canada. In her heart, she knows everything that is being done for Ukraine is worthwhile.
Kaitlyn is the epitome of an old soul. She spoke for over an hour, sharing many stories that moved us all. She was able to explain how they filled the large warehouse with all sorts of necessary supplies to distribute to people in need. The support ranges from food and quilts to medical supplies for defenders, civilians and animals. She also explained the steps the organization it takes to facilitate the distribution of those items.
A consistent theme in the stories Kaitlyn shared with us, was the strength and the fortitude of the Ukrainian people, and the resolve of Ukrainian Patriot in their venture to support them. It was amazing to hear, that no matter where the UP teams would go on a delivery run, they were met with warmth, open arms and often treated to a delicious meal. A wonderful example of Ukrainian hospitality and friendship.
Kaitlyn wore many hats during her time in Ukraine. She is part of a delivery team, teaching English or vaccinating dogs by the hundreds. Very close to Kaitlyn’s heart, were the children she met, and spent time with in several children’s centres. The Kalyna Country Quilting Guild, has supplied over 200 quilts, cloth books, dolls, toys, receiving blankets and pyjamas to Ukrainian Patriot, and they will find a way to get them to these children in need.
Kaitlyn also told us, about an older woman she met on a few occasions, who affectionately calls Kaitlyn, daughter. This elderly lady is nearly blind, and is so grateful for the supplies Kaitlyn and her team bring to her, and her neighbours. The spirit that she shows is what impresses Kaitlyn so much.
This lady lives very close to the Russian border and has, for her entire life, spoken only Russian. She emphasizes the indoctrination that she has lived under, but she is a proud Ukrainian who loves her country. She expressed she would not choose to live anywhere else. This sentiment is a common one throughout the country.
Ukrainian Patriot has been providing the necessary aid to support those caught in the cross fire of this invasion. Their mandate is to bring light, love, hope and connection to the people of Ukraine and elevate the human spirit. Their hope is that with the continued help and support from around the world, they will be victorious and will be free to live in peace.
We as Ukrainian Canadians have a responsibility to contribute through support, and to bring awareness about the realities of the war in Ukraine.
