On 24th February 2025, we marked the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
For the past three years, the United for Ukraine initiative has been a constant presence in the North of England, offering support, advice, and guidance to Ukrainian refugees as they rebuild their lives.
Our United for Ukraine team remains firmly committed to providing a helping hand to all those in need, standing strong with Ukraine. They're still here, working tirelessly to ensure that those affected by the crisis have access to the resources and support they need to thrive in their new communities.
For the GC colleagues who run the United for Ukraine initiative's day-to-day services, recent weeks have been both busy and profoundly meaningful – filled with events that honoured the fallen and reminded the world that Ukraine is still here, resilient and united.
Saturday, 22nd February: A Service of Remembrance in Bolton
It was a great honour for the team to be invited to the Service of Remembrance held in Bolton town centre, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began on 24th February 2022. A heartfelt prayer was offered for the people of Ukraine, for those who have lost their lives, and for those still enduring suffering.
Marianna Vaszilyiv, United for Ukraine Lead Key Worker told us:
"We would like to extend a special thank you to the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan, the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Diane Hawkins, and Yaroslav Tymchyshyn, Head of AUGB Bolton, for their kind invitations and for joining us on this significant day.
"Following the service, we had the opportunity to visit an educational exhibition presented by the Saturday Ukrainian School and CYM titled Ukraine is United. This exhibition allowed us to virtually explore every region of Ukraine, learn about notable historical figures, and discover fascinating facts about the country."
Monday, 24th February 2025: Exhibition and Service of Remembrance in Liverpool
The United for Ukraine team also organised an exhibition at our GC office in Lee House, where they had a the chance to present the results of our projects and engage with colleagues and partners.
Later in the day, they were honoured to be invited by Liverpool Mayor, Richard Kemp, to Liverpool Town Hall to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion. They also participated in a poignant Service of Remembrance at Liverpool Parish Church, paying tribute to the remarkable resilience of the Ukrainian people in their ongoing fight for independence and freedom.
About the events of the day, Marianna Vaszilyiv said:
"As we gathered in the church, we reflected on the ongoing conflict that began on 24th February 2022. Despite the immense pain and loss, the bravery and unity of the Ukrainian people continue to inspire. We remain steadfast in our fight for Ukraine’s freedom, determined to prevail.
"Our heartfelt thanks go to the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, Mark Blundell Esq, Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Rev. Dr. Taras Khomych, Head of AUGB Liverpool, Liudmyla Sergienko, and all those who supported this important event."
