Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Toronto celebrates achievements and honors staff at media event

Kateryna Ozerianska, LJI Reporter, NP-UN

On December 11, 2024, Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Toronto (UCSST) held a special media event to reflect on its impactful work, celebrate its achievements, and recognize the unwavering dedication of its staff, who have been pivotal in supporting Ukrainian newcomers to Canada. This event served as a celebration and an opportunity to inform the broader community about UCSST's critical role amidst ongoing challenges.

Over the past two years, UCSST has emerged as a lifeline for more than 4,445 clients, handling 15,651 interactions through settlement services, financial aid, and resource navigation. With the influx of over 300,000 Ukrainian nationals into Canada since the beginning of the war, UCSST's commitment to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support has been unwavering.

Recognizing Staff Efforts 

The event honoured staff members who, despite limited resources, rose to the occasion with extraordinary determination. From securing housing for families in crisis to providing gift cards for essential needs, UCSST staff showcased their ability to deliver life-saving interventions. These efforts would not have been possible without the generosity of donors and the strategic use of provincial grants, both of which UCSST heavily depends on.

Highlighting Achievements 

UCSST highlighted key milestones, such as organizing English classes for over 100 newcomers, coordinating donation depots for single mothers, and advocating for better municipal and provincial support. Staff have worked tirelessly to address homelessness, family breakdowns, and domestic violence while also connecting clients to medical services, legal aid, and employment opportunities.

Sharing Stories of Impact 

The media event included touching stories that underscore the transformative impact of UCSST's work. From helping a homeless family of nine find emergency shelter to assisting a single mother secure employment, these narratives reflected the resilience of newcomers and the critical support UCSST provides.

Future Challenges 

Despite its achievements, the organization faces an uncertain future. With the expiration of the CUAET visa program and the end of settlement service funding by March 2025, UCSST anticipates significant challenges in maintaining its current level of support. This highlights the need for continued community donations to sustain these vital services.

Community Engagement 

The event emphasized the importance of community collaboration and encouraged media representatives to share UCSST's message. By informing the public about the pressing needs of Ukrainian newcomers, UCSST hopes to inspire continued support and advocacy.

UCSST Executive Director Helen Duma expressed heartfelt gratitude to staff, donors, and volunteers: “Our success is a testament to our community's collective compassion and resilience. We have made a difference together and must continue this essential work.”

This event celebrated achievements and reinforced UCSST's commitment to standing by those in need and ensuring that no one in the community was left behind.

Upcoming Gala Event Celebrates Humanitarian Excellence 

Mark your calendars! On March 1, 2025, the Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Toronto (UCSST) will host the prestigious Markian Ochrymowych Humanitarian Award Gala at the Old Mill, Toronto. This highly anticipated event will commemorate the legacy of UCSST's founder by honouring exceptional individuals whose humanitarian efforts have significantly impacted the Ukrainian Canadian community.

This year’s award will recognize Halyna Kvitka Kondracki, the founding artistic director and conductor of the award-winning Vesnivka Choir and the Toronto Ukrainian Male Chamber Choir. Kondracki’s lifelong dedication to promoting Ukrainian music and culture has earned her numerous accolades, including the Shevchenko Medal and the Ontario Choral Federation’s Distinguished Service Award. Under her leadership, Vesnivka Choir has grown into a vital voice in the choral music scene, bringing Ukrainian compositions to audiences worldwide and achieving international recognition.

The gala promises to be an evening of inspiration and celebration, showcasing the enduring commitment of community leaders who champion cultural and humanitarian causes. Tickets and further details are available at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-markian-ochrymowych-humanitarian-award-2025-tickets-1131113203039?aff=oddtdtcreator
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