Regis University to Host The Race to Save Ukraine
The event will be at St. John Francis Regis Chapel on Feb. 13
Regis University is hosting The Race to Save Ukraine event in collaboration with non-profit Assist Ukraine. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the St. John Francis Regis Chapel. Assist Ukraine will provide a presentation to help educate the audience about what is currently happening overseas and what essential assistance is needed for the people of Ukraine.
Assist Ukraine, founded by local humanitarian Art Davidson and the late NPR foreign correspondent Anne Garrels, focuses on direct, grassroots efforts to save lives on the frontlines and in cities and villages across Ukraine. In January, the organization delivered 1.7 tons of critical medical supplies to the frontlines, including chest seals, tourniquets, and trauma dressings. The goal is to provide vital essentials for the region.
"In alignment with the Jesuit mission of Regis, our commitment revolves around the pursuit of a world rooted in justice and humanity, where we stand as companions especially for the most vulnerable. With eagerness, we anticipate extending our support to the people of Ukraine, aspiring that our aid not only offers relief but also serves as a beacon in preserving lives," said Rev. Kevin Burke, S.J., vice president of University Mission at Regis.
Davidson, co-founder of Assist Ukraine, remarked “Since founding Assist Ukraine two years ago with former NPR correspondent Anne Garrels, we have concentrated on saving lives. Bringing an end to this dreadful war is out of our hands. But until this war is over, we’re going to save as many lives as we can.”
Olga Shpak, director of Assist Ukraine, a marine biologist, and a recent honoree of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, left her scientific work to dedicate herself to saving lives in Ukraine. Davidson and Shpak will provide a presentation, and light refreshments will be available.
“Government procurement and delivery to the frontlines may take weeks, if not months,” said Shpak. “With our network of partners, we often deliver critically needed items within a day.”
The need for critical supplies is greater than ever. Assist Ukraine aims to raise $800,000 in the next 30 days to meet urgent requests. To support this goal, a generous donor has committed $400,000 in matching funds by taking out a second mortgage on his home. Donations will be matched dollar for dollar and are tax-deductible. Online donations can be made at Assist Ukraine.