Shortly after the invasion of Ukraine, Help Ukraine | Operation Palyanytsya was founded as a humanitarian nonprofit to sustain Ukrainians impacted by war. Unlike any entrepreneurial start-up that any of us had been part of, lives depended on the speed at which they became operational and funded. To accomplish this, they needed to quickly finance the projects on the ground.
In walks the Snoqualmie Valley … of zip codes 98065, 98045 and 98024, thank you, дякую!
United States – Ukraine Business Council (USUBC) is a proud supporter of Help Ukraine | Operation Palyanytsya. The work of HU-OP has been instrumental sustaining the internally displaced persons within Ukraine. We are writing to shine light on the fact that Help Ukraine initially gained momentum and has been able to sustain programming with stellar support from the Snoqualmie Valley, the City of Snoqualmie in particular.
As of this writing in two years, Help Ukraine has been able to give 4,000 online medical consultations, work with 123 NGOs and hospitals, help 450,000 individuals, and deliver over $3.5 million in aid. We want to call to your attention that the zip codes associated with your community have garnered the greatest number of individual donors (800+), the greatest density of grassroots support, and close to 10% of all personal online donations HU-OP has received. Much of that comes from the support and work from your small businesses. That is an incredible world impact and spearheaded by commerce in your area.
In particular, please note the following establishments who have donated in-kind or directly or sponsored fundraisers: Francesco Ristorante Italiano, William Grassie Wine Estates, Nelson Treehouse and Supply, Sharlet Floral, Snoqualmie Candle Company, Erika Laureano Design, Mezzaluna Kitchen, Beck Pack Systems and Snoqualmie United Methodist Church, as well as artisans Tina Mix and Hugh and Mason Pastoriza. Special shout out to Snoqualmie Candle, which gave thousands of dollars of light and scent to bomb shelters.
Although the work of HU-OP resides in Ukraine, those displaced are now calling Washington their home. Many local businesses have graciously helped with logistics needed to obtain and distribute basic needs through a small operation on Snoqualmie Ridge. U-haul has supplied the storage, Joey both donated and delivered furniture, Carmichaels and Treasures in Heaven donated needed items, and Caadxi Oaxaca and the local wards of the LDS church drove full loads of furnishings for families in the area. Special shout out to Wildwood Ranch who donated 5 campships to kids.
Brian Mefford, Director
Nancy Baker, Snoqualmie resident and Help Ukraine | Operation Palyanytsya Board Advisor
