Miracle Theatre and the Prince George Community Foundation are joining forces by launching the Raising Hope Campaign.
The goal is to raise $100,000 to help further support Ukrainians arriving in Prince George through the Refugee and Hope Endowment Fund.
During an event today (Monday), local resident Eli Klasner donated $20,000 to the cause and said it was an easy decision.
“For me, knowing my own background, knowing my existence here on earth is simply because Canada once opened up its doors to my family as refugees it was an easy decision to help want to kick off this fundraising campaign.”
“As a Jew, my family and relatives understand firsthand the threat that evil poses when left unchecked. With its military onslaught, Moscow has shown that its hellbent on as much carnage and destruction in Ukraine as possible. In the process, it has obliterated hospitals, schools, and cultural centres.”
“Ukrainians and Jews have a complicated history because there was Zora’s persecution, Bolshevik persecution, Nazi persecution, and Stalinist persecution. Together, we have lived through 150 years of persecution,” added Klasner.
Miracle Theatre Director, Ted Price mentioned their fundraising goal might be lofty but it is achievable.
“Our goal through this campaign with Eli’s contribution is $100,000. Well, we are instantly one-fifth of the way there so it was just so inspiring.”
Miracle Theatre Producer, Anne Laughlin stated even with the tough economic times we are in, she believes most residents are starting to realize what’s most important given the year-long invasion of Ukraine.
“I think that people are just beginning to realize we don’t need all this stuff that we go buy. Maybe we can help so that we are not in those shoes.”
“This might be happening in the Ukraine but no one is safe. So, you internalize that and realize that could be me. We may have problems getting our groceries and maybe paying off our mortgages but just think if we didn’t have food or heat. I think people are starting to think that way.”
The fund will be established through the proceeds of Miracle Theatre’s Dancing Lessons production. which runs from March 30th to April 19th at Knox Performance Centre on 5th Avenue.
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