South West generosity delivers support to hundreds of children

Last October’s United for Ukraine fundraiser, held at Bay Furniture and Design in Dunsborough, demonstrated the tremendous heart of the southwest community.

Local generosity touched the lives of 780 orphaned children in Ukraine.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of PTAHA, a non-government organisation in Lviv, the funds raised provided essential support, comfort, and moments of joy to children affected by the ongoing conflict.

Helena Chlepnac, who works closely with PTAHA in Ukraine, shared how the community’s contributions were directly distributed to the children in greatest need before Christmas.

“The kids received gifts for Saint Nicholas Day, along with plenty of little treats and food for Christmas,” she said, explaining how these simple pleasures brought light and laughter to challenging times.

The funds were strategically distributed to assist children in multiple regions.

“The money was divided between helping children with cerebral palsy and an orphanage in Sambir, which is near where my family is from, as well as the orphanage in Lviv,” Helena said.

“Due to the significant number of children in need at the orphanages, we also built extra bathrooms to accommodate all the kids.

“And some were even gifted with new homes, as many of them have lost their parents in the war.”

With Ukraine’s power grid significantly compromised, the timing of our region’s support proved essential.

“As they head into winter and power remains minimal or non-existent, many children are freezing,” Helena said.

“They greatly appreciated the blankets and warm clothing we provided.

“Our fundraising efforts also helped us supply any medical attention they required.”

The children were immensely grateful and couldn’t wait to express their appreciation to those who helped them.

“The kids were incredibly grateful and had so much fun writing thank you letters, which was beautiful,” Helena said.

These expressions of gratitude came as PTAHA continues to face increasing challenges, with over 200 additional children recently seeking help as the situation intensifies.

Edward Wayne Jr, Director of Bridge of Life, another NGO working alongside PTAHA, captured the impact of the region’s generosity in his letter to the Dunsborough community:

“I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your generous support for the Children of Ukraine,” he said.

These are tough times for everyone here in Ukraine, especially the children.

“Today marks the 1,000th day since the invasion, so we are focusing on the children and doing everything within our power to put smiles on the faces that have known sadness for so long.

“Your support has helped make our efforts possible, and we are extremely grateful for this. We hope you take great satisfaction knowing that your efforts are definitely making a difference in many ways.”

As NGOs like PTAHA and Bridge of Life, along with Helena and many other volunteers, continue their vital work supporting children affected by the conflict, Helena also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the south west community.

“Your generosity has provided both material support and hope, warmth and care to hundreds of young lives touched by tragedy. We cannot thank you enough.”