Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Support at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

As violence in Ukraine erupted and shocked the world this year, concerned citizens sought ways to support the humanitarian efforts to resettle and support refugees.

Through the contributions of Run Ottawa, the Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal fundraising teams, Canadians Sharing Locally and Globally, and now the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, there is a strong effort to send meaningful support to the displaced persons affected by ongoing violence in Ukraine. 

John and Cathy Wenuk, founders of Canadians Sharing Locally and Globally, have directed the disaster relief portion of their funding towards Ukrainian relief and will be running the Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa to raise their goal of $50,000 to match $50,000 already committed as a matched gift. “As a Canadian, the war in Ukraine has really shocked me. I never thought that I would see such destruction in a modern European nation in my lifetime. In addition, I have a Ukrainian background. My grandfather emigrated to Canada from Ukraine in 1905 and eventually settled in Winnipeg. I have felt deeply connected watching the videos, seeing pictures and hearing the news.” 

The Wenuks are grateful for the opportunity to work through the Canadian Red Cross and are really looking forward to Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend with all of the celebration and energy it brings to Ottawa. 

Participants approached the organizers of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend to coordinate a fundraising team for the Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal in the Desjardins Charity Challenge. The Canadian Red Cross support includes preparedness, immediate and ongoing relief efforts, long-term recovery, resiliency, and other critical humanitarian activities as needs arise, both in Ukraine and surrounding countries, including supporting populations displaced.

Green Bib participants at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend diverted a portion of their registration fees to the campaign in lieu of a medal. Proceeds of Run for Ukraine bibSNAPSS sold at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross through the Desjardins Charity Challenge. And Run Ottawa’s Saturday 5K and 1K run on May 8 raised over $3,000 for the fundraising initiative.

The fundraising campaign quickly surpassed its initial goal of $2,500 and continued to welcome donations in support of the Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. Several teams and individuals joined the effort through the Desjardins Charity Challenge, demonstrating the power of the running community to rally around a meaningful cause.

The initiative was inspired by a desire to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and provide assistance to those affected by the ongoing crisis. Support came from friends, family members, running clubs, and community members, helping the campaign exceed expectations and expand its reach.

The campaign also highlighted the strong connections many Canadians have to Ukraine and the importance of coming together during times of need. Through fundraising and participation, members of the running community were able to make a tangible contribution while raising awareness of the humanitarian crisis.

Beyond the fundraising itself, the initiative reflected the resilience, generosity, and community spirit that are at the heart of the Desjardins Charity Challenge. Participants embraced the opportunity to support an important cause while pursuing their own personal goals and celebrating the positive impact that collective action can have.

The success of the campaign serves as a reminder that when individuals come together around a shared purpose, even small actions can create meaningful change.

You can do your part to boost these efforts! Please DONATE and SHARE.