Help us support Ukrainian refugees in Guelph

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, partnered alongside Knox and Two Rivers Churches, has provided support to Ukrainians who have come to Guelph after being forced to flee their home due to the war. Since Ukrainians are not legally "refugees", they do not have access to most of the programs available to those who are recognized as refugees.

Members and friends of the congregations rallied early on and have continued to contribute money to the refugee fund. In addition, the churches have engaged in a number of fund raising activities and two local public appeals.

This support program has gone on for more than three years and there is no end in sight.

As of May 1, 2025 we have enough money in the refugee fund to continue support for three families at the same level until August, 2025. While both St. Andrew’s and Knox receive a few hundred dollars per month dedicated to the refugee fund, we have jointly come to the conclusion that we have probably exhausted all traditional means of raising the amounts of money that are required to maintain our current support.

Both our Ukrainian friends and the churches know that it cannot go on indefinitely but, we do not want our Ukrainian friends to be forced to leave Canada and we cannot expect the congregations to carry the load. Thus, we have decided to launch a gofundme campaign. All the money raised will go to the refugee fund.

Rick McRonald

Co-chair

Mission and Outreach Coordinating Committee

St. Andrew's