Over the past two-and-a- half years, the Rotary Club of Picton has raised over $114,000 to support the people of Ukraine. The effort was honoured by Health Partners International Canada at their 2024 President’s Table Gala and Award Ceremony on June 6. 

The international relief agency cited the Rotary Club’s on-going fundraising in support of HPIC as well as its humanitarian projects in Ukraine.

Rotary used the money to fund $51,000 in pharmaceuticals and medical supplies through Health Partners Canada, spent $21,000 on temporary accommodations arranged by Shelterbox Canada, and donated $42,000 to rebuild the Buzova Ukraine School through the Rotary E-Club of Ukraine and Rotary District 2232 Ukraine

“It is quite remarkable what our Club has achieved in raising fund for relief projects in Ukraine, while still maintaining the level of support we provide to local, national and international charities,” President Don Leslie told the Gazette. “It speaks volumes of the generosity and commitment of the community in which we live.”

HPIC is the only Canadian charity with a Canada Health Establishment License. That allows them to hold and ship pharmaceuticals. Working with leading companies to obtain free or low cost medical supplies, HPIC arranges warehousing and shipping around the world.

Pitching In

HPIC Director Dayana Gomez said the organization is grateful for the continuous support from the Rotary Club of Picton to aid efforts in sending medical aid to Ukraine. Ms. Gomez noted HPIC has delivered over $30 million in medicines since the war began.

In the last two years, local Rotarians have travelled to the HPIC facility in Oakville to help pack medicines in their warehouse. Rotary provided generous financial support to expedite HPIC’s response in Ukraine, where the war continues and healthcare systems remain vulnerable. Thanks to the Rotary Club of Picton, HPIC has delivered over $500,000 in urgently needed medicines.

“HPIC relies on the generosity of Canadians across Canada. Rotary Clubs share the same values as HPIC, and we have been partnering with many clubs for many years. Every $10 we raise through generous donations allows us to procure, ship and mobilize $100 in medicines,” she said.

“Our Emergency Response in Ukraine has been impactful thanks to the generosity of all our partners including Rotary Club of Picton,” said Lois Brown, President of HPIC. “Together, we continue to get medical aid to people in Ukraine who continue to live in crisis today.” 

HPIC wants to raise a further $100,000, which will allow it to fund an additional $1 million in medicines in the next 12 months. To donate, contact the Rotary Club of Picton.