Elk Island National Park Christmas Charity Drive

Elk Island National Park Christmas Charity Drive

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

of the members of Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine (VASWU) Committee gathered at Synergy Chartered Professional Accountants in Vegreville on Dec. 21 to accept Christmas presents hand delivered by several staff members from Elk Island National Park, (EINP).

EINP Superintendent Dale Kirkland said every year through their Christmas Charity Drive they donate to a different cause. “We decided to give to VASWU because we wanted to give to the newcomers to Canada. So, we contacted Jerrold Lemko as VASWU seem to be the best fit. We wanted to do something special for kids. The staff at EINP donated the funds. From there, we bought the gifts. We also are giving a coupon to each family for admission to EINP.”

L-R: Staff from EINP with Members of VASWU: Rachel Dennis, Jana Cornoc, Julie Ostrem, Dale Kirkland, Nicole Lakusta, Sheryl Cymbaliuk, Geri Tuck and Jerrold Lemko.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Staff from EINP bring the gifts in.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Liaison for Vegreville Town Council and VASWU Jerrold Lemko coordinated the project. “These gifts will be going to Ukrainian families who have settled in Vegreville and Area. Through Sandi Humeniuk and Larissa Bombak, we will be able to get how many kids there were and the ages and gender of the kids. The presents will be going to 19 boys and eight girls,” stated Lemko.

Some presents prepared for children.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Partner for Synergy and Treasurer for VASWU Sheryl Cymbaliuk said, “The support from our community and surrounding area has completely exceeded our expectations! We are so grateful to all the individuals, businesses, and organizations, including Elk Island National Park, for their generous donation and support for our new families.”