Red X Technologies Donates $60,000 Of Hardware And Technology To Peterborough Humane Society

Mark Garrard with Red X Technologies Inc. has provided the Peterborough Humane Society with over $60,000 worth of hardware and technology.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Humane Society.

Garrard, proud owner of Cooper the Golden Doodle, says he knows what the Humane Society does for the community.

“The value of having such a great team at the humane society in our community is priceless,” he said. “What they offer now, and what they will be able to offer with their new facility will be so great for pet owners and animals in need.”

Red X Technologies Inc. donated supplies like multi-function devices, photocopiers and printers, to assist the staff at The Peterborough Humane Society in their daily work.

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YWCA Hosts 'Challenge For Mom' To Raise Fund For Programs That Help Mothers In Need

YWCA invites local businesses and community members to show their support for women experiencing gender-based violence by joining the YWCA Challenge for Mom, a fundraiser on from May 1 until Mother’s Day (May 8).

Stock Photo.

“The YWCA Challenge for Mom is an opportunity to engage with members of our community and ensure that there is widespread knowledge of the resources that continue to be available at the YWCA for women and their children, while also working together to raise funds for core shelter and support services,” said Ria Nicholson, YWCA.

Community members are encouraged to visit www.ywcapeterborough.org, set a fundraising goal, and invite family, friends and coworkers to make a donation online or support them in accomplishing a fundraising activity.

Participants who raise $250 or more will be entered in a draw to win one of three prizes, kindly donated by local businesses (details available online).

“Violence against women has intensified. Locally, the need for YWCA shelter and support services for women and children increased by 30% during the pandemic. We’ve also witnessed an alarming increase in the severity of abuse being inflicted,” said YWCA Executive Director, Kim Dolan.

Proceeds from the initiative will fund YWCA programs that receive only partial government funding, including Crossroads Shelter, Haliburton Emergency Rural SafeSpace (HERS), Family Court Support, Transition Support, Nourish, and more.

To learn more about how the pandemic has intensified violence against women, or to discuss possible corporate partnership opportunities visit www.ywcapeterborough.org or contact Ria Nicholson, YWCA Lead Philanthropic Advisor at 705-743-3526 x113 or rnicholson@ywcapeterborough.org.

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Local Man Continues to Fundraise for Ukrainian Efforts With Community's Help

After raising over $17,000 in a soccer equipment sale for Ukrainian efforts, Peterborough’s Victor Waselenko is continuing his aid asking the community’s help for $100,000.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funds go towards the Red Cross in a campaign called “PeterboroughHelpsUkraine.”

The initial soccer equipment fundraiser — selling soccer apparel, footwear and equipment at half price — was held last Saturday at Hybrid Sports. The $10,000 goal was easily surpassed as the event raised $17,421.50 that has been placed into the fundraiser account.

“It was a great day and the people of Peterborough were extremely supportive,” said Waselenko.

The first-generation Ukranian said he wanted to create a medium for the public to help Ukraine.

“I know that people want to help and contribute but they sometimes do not know where or how to do that,” said Waselenko.

If you would like to donate to Waselenko’s fundraiser, click here.

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Two Ukrainian Trent Students Are Rallying The Community To Support Their Home Country

Uliana Karpukhina and Mykhailo Rangiev, Ukrainian students studying at Trent University and members of Trent’s Russian Speaking Association (TURSA) are asking the community to contribute to two fundraisers; one to supply medical supplies to Ukraine, and one to help get children out of the war torn country.

Mykhailo Rangiev. Photo courtesy of Uliana Karpukhina.

Karpukhina’s mother and younger brother were able to get out of Ukraine and are currently in Spain, though her father had to stay behind.

Together with her mother, they are working to help children who have lost their parents evacuate Ukraine and find safety in Spain. Money contributed to their GoFundMe will help to pay the rent of the house they are staying in, groceries, diapers and clothes.

Rangiev has been in Canada for about five years now. His family remains in Ukraine volunteering.

He, along with the TURSA are asking to community for donations of medical supplies to send to the front lines of Ukraine.

“It would be nice to be able to accept physical donations,” he said. “But there are very specific things there that are needed - not just aspirin and bandages.”

With donations Rangiev will purchase supplies suggested by his family members directly in Ukraine. He will deliver the supplies to a shipping company in the GTA, that is flying supplies to Ukraine for free.

Donations can be sent to tursa22@gmail.com.

In addition to these two fundraisers, Rangiev is also raising money for Ukrainian students in Peterborough that may not have access to funds now, though he says the community exceeded his expectations with that fundraiser and he would like to focus on supplies now.

Both Rangiev and Karpukhina agree that Peterborough has been so supportive of the Ukrainian community as news comes out of the horrors in Ukraine.

“It was terrifying at first, seeing the news and not knowing if your family is ok,” said Karpukhina. “It’s easier now, but it’s still going on there, it’s still our country and our heritage - it’s part of our identity.”

“I wanted to do everything I could to help,” said Rangiev.

He says for the first few days of the Russian invasion he was in Etobicoke every day packing humanitarian supplies to be shipped to Ukraine.

“I initially thought to go back to Ukraine because the whole thing is so outrageous, but my Dad convinced me that at least for now I will be more helpful here and can help refugees that will come,” he said.

Karpukhina says seeing Ukrainian flags, ribbons and sunflowers around Peterborough has been amazing.

“In my neighborhood there’s a little kid who is about eight year old,” said Karpukhina. “He has ribbons and he’s been putting them up everywhere on trees and posts - I really notice them. It’s so cute and nice to see kids showing initiative.”

“It’s amazing to see such great support,” said Rangiev.

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Easter Seals and YMCA Receive $15,000 From Carl Oake Rotary Swim

After months of crazy stunts such as downhill sledding, fire hoses and shopping carts off docks, Rotary Club of Peterborough’s Carl Oake Rotary Swim has raised $15,000 for Easter Seals Ontario and the YMCA in a cheque presentation on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Easter Seals received $12,000 while the YMCA got $3,000 of the total donation.

The 36th annual Carl Oake Rotary Swimathon was held on Feb. 25 where individuals or teams were encouraged to swim a few laps at the YMCA to raise money Easter Seals and Rotary Projects.

Those unable to attend were encouraged to do a virtual at-home swim or splash at home while raising funds and sharing it on social media tagging the fundraising’s Facebook page.

To date, over $1.3 million dollars has been raised.

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Kawartha Potters Guild Presents Celebrate Ceramics Fundraiser

Kawartha Potters Guild will be hosting ‘Celebrate Ceramics’, a fundraiser to support their not-for-profit pottery guild and art community on April 8.

Potters from Kawartha Potters Guild donate bowls to YWCA Empty Bowls fundraiser each year. Photo courtesy of Kawartha Potters Guild.

Tickets are $75 and available at Kawartha Potters Guild at 993 Talwood Dr.

Attendees at the fundraiser will be entered into a draw. When their number is called they will be able to chose a piece of donated pottery to take home.

Guests can also enjoy live music, complimentary food and a glass of wine.

Those that purchase a $75 ticket can bring a friend for an extra $25, though they will not be eligible to bring home a piece of pottery.

Pottery that has been donated to the fundraiser is currently on display at the Kawartha Potters Guild. Pieces can be viewed Tues – Fri: 1-5 p.m. or by appointment with Donna O'Brien, administrator@kawarthapottersguild.com.

The event will be hosted April 8, 7-9 p.m. at the Lions Club, 347 Burnham St.

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Peterborough Artist Raises $8,450 For Ukraine With Auction

Local artist Nick Leniuk of Riverbend Studio raised $8,450 for the Canada Ukraine Foundation-Ukrainian Canadian Congress by auctioning a handmade, Ukraine inspired carving.

Nick Leniuk in his home studio with his piece ‘Rise Above’.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February, Leniuk, a first generation Canadian-Ukrainian, knew he wanted to do something to help.

As a sculptor, he decided on creating and auctioning a unique piece.

All the pieces Leniuk carves are drawn by hand, though because he wanted to get this one done quickly he searched the internet for a silhouette of a sunflower, Ukraine’s national flower.

He found a silhouette he liked and learned it was drawn by a Russian artist, who completely supported Leniuk’s intentions.

Leniuk facilitated the auction through his social media, with bids coming through direct messages, with the auction closing Monday at 4 p.m.

By Monday morning the bidding was at about $1,500, but soon a bidding war began.

“There were two bidders that were upping it by about $100 every half hour or so,” he said. “I was getting stressed out. I always feel bad because not everyone can win.”

With about three minutes left in the auction and two bidders competing, a third bidder offered $3,000, says Leniuk.

“I was floored,” said Leniuk. “I couldn’t update my sites quick enough.”

One bidder dropped out, while the second proposed an idea to Leniuk.

They suggested that Leniuk ask the winning bidder if he could make a second sunflower piece, which they would purchase for $3,000.

The winning bidder agreed, which means Leniuk has sold two pieces at $3,000.

“He was happy to go along with that proposal,” said Leniuk. “As long as he got the first piece, only two were ever made and that his was certified as the original.”

Both winning bidders requested that they remain anonymous.

The additional money was donated by friends, family and supporters on Leniuk.

“I had really modest expectations, but it snowballed into something that was bigger than I ever expected.”

Leniuk, who’s father Antony was born in Ukraine and came to Canada after World War Two, still has family in Europe.

His cousin, born in Ukraine and living in Paris, has a son that has returned to Ukraine to resist foreign invaders.

Leniuk notes that although this is a different war, and different times, his family has gone through this before.

His uncle, who he was named after, fought in the Ukrainian resistance during World War Two. He was discovered by police who were cooperating with Nazis, and never seen again.

His cousins son reached out to Leniuk, and thanked him for his contribution from Canada.

“It’s gratifying to be able to contribute on behalf of so many people,” he said. “It’s the people that make these this happen.”

Leniuk will officially make the donation this week, after payments are finalized, and post the receipt on social media.

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Dragon Boat Festival Will Take To The Water This Year After Two Year Hiatus

The 21st annual Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival will take to the water this year to raise money for the PRHC Foundation, after having no in person event for the last two years.

Photo from the 15th annual Dragon Boat Festival. File Photo.

The festival will take place on June 11 at Del Crary Park.

“The last few years have been quite challenging for our team” said Festival host Survivors Abreast Team President Marg Walsh. “We are resilient and have managed to keep the team active and the Festival alive. We are inspired by the enthusiasm the community has already shown and can’t wait to once again welcome everyone to such a worthy and important fundraising event as we continue to work hard to ensure everyone from across our region has access to world-class breast cancer care.”

After being cancelled in 2020, the Festival went virtual last year and raised over $95,000, bringing their 20 year fundraising total to over $3.7 million dollars.

“It was absolutely awe-inspiring to see organizers and supporters keep this incredible event going in such fun and creative ways, while continuing their generous support of world-class regional cancer care, close to home,” said Leslie Heighway, PRHC Foundation president and CEO.

Participants will enjoy the same features that have been at the festival in the past as well as new ones including: 

• A new FundRacing division for those teams or individuals who are not able to participate in person but still want to support the festival and make use of the fundraising tools available to those who register. (Prizes are also up for grabs for top fundraisers in this division)

• The One Stop Dragon Boat Shop will be available online leading up to race day and in person on race day

• The Family Fun Zone offering activities and crafts to keep all entertained

• The Dragon’s Lair, Loft & Nest – a luxurious tent experience and added perks for the top three fundraising teams

• The Vendor Village Market – with over 40 vendors brought to us from Modern Makers Market including food vendors

• The Thirsty Dragon – Beer Garden

• The Flower ceremony which will be open to the community at large to honour their loved ones.

According to Heighway, proceeds from this years Festival will allow Peterborough Regional Health Centre to invest in new state-of-the-art equipment and technology to serve more cancer patients, support earlier cancer diagnosis, and provide safer, more effective treatments.

Kawartha Credit Union will be the events sponsor for the 21st year in a row.

Registration for the 2022 Festival is available on April 1 at www.ptbodragonboat.ca.

The first 3 teams to register will win a free extra practice in a dragon boat on Little Lake. Participants and supporters are encouraged to engage with the Festival on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the handle @ptbodragonboat

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Local Man Holds Soccer Equipment Sale To Support Ukrainian Efforts

It did not take long for Victor Waselenko to aid his home country of Ukraine as he is holding a one-day soccer equipment sale in support of the Red Cross for humanitarian efforts this Saturday.

Waselenko sent 1,300 medical kits earlier this month to his home country of Ukraine. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The cash-only sale is at Hybrid Sports at 1575 Chemong Rd. and runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Waselenko used to own the soccer apparel store “Soccer Plus” located at 139 George St N. — until closing in 2017 — where his leftover jerseys, apparel, footwear and equipment are sold at the one-day event at 50 per cent off.

All proceeds will go towards Ukrainian charity efforts according to Waselenko.

“My goal is to walk out of here with here with empty boxes," he said. "I would love nothing more than if we sold everything that was here but we have an aggressive goal of $10,000 that we'd like to raise."

After the sale, Waselenko says he wants to raise a total of $100,000 for the Red Cross with the help of the community.

@ptbo_canada A Ukranian Fleming College faculty member is selling tons of soccer gear at low prices to help support Urkranian efforts! #ptbo #ptbocanada #ukraine🇺🇦 #ukraine #soccer #futbol #charity #sports #fundrasier #peterborough ♬ Ole! Ole! Soccer! - Music Star

Earlier this month, Waselenko and his family sent 1,300 medical kits to Ukraine with the help of Shoppers Drug Mart and from public donors. There were more than $50,000 in product that was shipped to Ukraine.

Waselenko is a first-generation Ukrainian after his parents moved to Canada shortly after World War II.

"They were still young and they met here (in Canada)," explained Waselenko. "But they left a lot of family members behind because not everybody immigrated."

Waselenko has had a love for soccer since he has played as a kid. He has coached for several teams including his daughters’.

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Two Local Men On A Mission In Europe To Transport Refugees And Deliver Supplies

For John Graham and Dave Black, from Campbellford and Springbrook, donating money to Ukrainian relief efforts was not enough. The two packed up their lives and are currently in Europe, transporting refugees farther west from the Polish/Ukraine border with a rented van, plenty of patience and over 10,000 km of European highways under their belt.

David Black and John Graham before leaving. Photo sourced from their Facebook page.

It started out as a conversation, says Graham.

The two friends were sitting at around a table in Campbellford feeling helpless watching the Russian invasion unfold in Ukraine.

“It was a spur of the moment decision,” said Graham. “I checked how my family would feel about me going and I got medium support.”

Black, who is ex-military and ex-police, says the two are at a point in their life that they have enough freedom to pack up and leave for a long period of time.

Graham arrived in Berlin, Germany on March 14, picked up a rental vehicle and took to Przemysl, Poland to begin the mission. Black met him on March 19.

Their goal is to not only transport refugees, but to pick up much needed medical supplies and bring them back to the Poland/Ukraine border.

“We’ve been staying true to our goal of bringing supplies back,” said Black. “There’s just too many people here and not enough supplies.”

As of Wednesday the two estimate they have driven over 10,000 km, and 27 refugees. They have driven through places like Berlin, Prague, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia and Bulgaria.

On Monday the two transported a woman who had been struck by shrapnel in her leg to a nearby hospital.

Because of the influx of people in Przemysl their hospital is at capacity. Black and Graham brought the woman to a hospital in Dresden, Germany to seek treatment.

“I think most are still in a state of shock,” said Graham. “It’s bit of a relief to no longer be in the refugee centre, but I can’t speak for what’s going on in their mind when we’re driving them farther away from their home.”

The group of seven they are currently driving with - including three children - are going to Rotterdam, Prague and Berlin.

On Wednesday their passengers learned that the last bridge in their hometown had been struck, meaning anyone that was still there will have to stay.

“They know people that are still there,” said Graham. “It’s very upsetting.”

Because of the language barrier, the two say their passengers mostly talk amongst themselves and try to keep the children entertained.

“The language isn’t there but the time we get where we’re going these people are very important to me,” said Graham. “We’ve eaten together and slept next to each other for days at a time.”

The two note how much support is flooding into Poland to help.

“John and I noticed the other day about 25 fire trucks in a convoy going across the Polish border to presumably to fight the fires in combat zones,” said Black.

Black has been wearing a ball cap with a Canadian flag on it and says many people are pleasantly surprised to see Canadians helping.

At home, Tobey VanRoon and Bill Davenport have been helping Graham and Black’s mission.

VanRoon has organized a GoFundMe that is being used to purchase medical supplies and pay for gas. Any money remaining will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross's Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal.

Davenport has been compiling videos sent by Graham and posting updates to a Facebook group.

Before our conversation ended, Graham had a final, specific request.

“One of the big asks - they’re very short on tetanus and thrombosis medication.  They’re doing field amputations here because of shrapnel wounds,” said Graham. “There’s no medication to ensure they don’t get infected. If anyone has any access to that, if you can get it here I can get contacts to hospitals in Ukraine.”

The best way to contact both Graham and Black is through the Facebook group.

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