For Ukrainian families displaced by the conflict that began in 2022, settling into a new life abroad remains an ongoing journey. In New Westminster, British Columbia, local support continues to help young newcomers adjust to their environment, offering practical aid and encouragement as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
Meeting practical needs for the new term
James Lin (林俊彥), a local volunteer, learned about a summer camp fundraising initiative organized by Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Church in New Westminster. Recognizing the approaching school season and the cool morning and evening temperatures in Greater Vancouver, volunteers reached out to project manager Iryna Dzobko to coordinate support.
On August 13, 2026, volunteers organized a gathering at the church to distribute school supplies and eco-blankets to 23 Ukrainian children. Lin explained how recycled materials are transformed into warm textiles for families in need.
LEFT: Mac Miao (front right), CEO of Tzu Chi Canada, interacts with children during the event. RIGHT: Volunteer James Lin (right) explains how eco-blankets are made from recycled plastic bottles. | Photos: Amy Wu
Fostering values of compassion and kindness
During the event, volunteer Shirley Tseng (曾永莉) introduced the concept of the "Bamboo Bank," encouraging children to save a small coin each day to help others in need. Tseng explained that small, consistent acts of giving can pool together to create a meaningful impact in the community.
Volunteer Jina Wang (王竹筠) led an interactive session on teamwork using short videos to illustrate the difference between positive collaboration and negative behavior. The presentation encouraged children to communicate kindly and respect one another. One young girl noted that mocking others causes harm, reinforcing the lesson that every member of a group plays a valuable role. Afterwards, the children wrote messages on cards to share positive wishes.
LEFT: Volunteer Shirely Tseng (front right) encourages children to save small coins daily to foster a habit of giving. RIGHT: Volunteer Jina Wang (front right) teaches children the importance of teamwork and respectful communication. | Photos: Amy Wu
Building connections across cultures
Mac Miao (苗萬輝), CEO of Tzu Chi Canada, spoke with the children about the meaning of volunteering and invited them to participate in helping others. The children responded enthusiastically with "Ni hao," demonstrating how warmth and goodwill bridge language and cultural gaps.
Iryna Dzobko expressed her appreciation for the collaboration:
When you are loved, you love others too. Thank you so much, thank you for the wonderful work your foundation does! I don't know how to express it, but it feels like inspiration from the Holy Spirit. We thank God and thank you for giving us this valuable opportunity! — Iryna Dzobko, Project Manager at Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Church
LEFT: Ukrainian youth assist in setting up the church venue before the event. RIGHT: Church project manager Iryna Dzobko (front right) expresses gratitude for the opportunity to partner in helping families. | Photos: Amy Wu
Oksana Honchanch, a teacher at the parish's Ukrainian language school, also noted the community's support: "There are many people helping Ukraine, and you came here! Thank you for your support, thank you for knowing us! — Oksana Honchanch, Teacher at Parish Ukrainian Language School
As a new school year approaches, thoughtful preparations and continuous care help ease the transition for displaced families. With backpacks filled for the classroom and blankets ready for cooler weather, young newcomers move forward with renewed confidence and community support.
LEFT: A Ukrainian child examines her new backpack during the distribution. RIGHT: Volunteers deliver backpacks and stationery, filling children with anticipation for the new school year. | Photos: Amy Wu
Written by Amy Wu (吳群芳), Erica Lu (盧金晶)
