Helping hands
An idea by a Bonnyville municipal councillor to offer the community as a safe-haven for displaced Ukrainian families stands tall as a great humanitarian gesture.
For more than a year, the people of Ukraine have been forced to defend themselves against Russian invaders, forced to withstand tragedy and devastation as their homes, communities and families are torn apart.
It stands to reason that areas far removed from that violence want to help. The Bonnyville area, and much of the Lakeland has a strong Ukrainian connection. Settlers moved to these areas for the fertile soil to start new lives from many European and Baltic states over the generations. The Ukrainian culture continues to thrive.
As the MD of Bonnyville council explores a proposal from councillor Don Slipchuk this week, it’s important to stand back and see the big picture. A formal invitation will have to include funding, social supports, perhaps employment, housing and healthcare assistance.
There are many in our communities already struggling with many of these issues. Medical professional shortages, homelessness, mental health, addictions — these things are already in need of direct local attention. This isn’t to say our communities aren’t meant to extend helping hands to those Ukrainian families who so desperately need to be rescued. As humankind, we need to help as many as we can. But let’s hope these discussions about those in need a world away, don’t look past those in need who already call our region home.
Creating the best communities from the ground up will only strengthen the foundation as we welcome more.
