The Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) is spearheading a fundraising effort in B.C.’s construction industry to help the people of Ukraine.
“For two weeks, we have all watched in horror as the Russian army attempts to conquer the independent, democratic nation of Ukraine. The largest military attack Europe has seen since the end of World War II is laying waste to vibrant cities and communities and indiscriminately killing innocent civilians,” said Chris Gardner, ICBA President. “Our members have been asking us how they can help – so we are working to raise money for the Red Cross’ relief efforts.”
This week, ICBA kicked off a campaign challenging construction contractors to raise money for Ukraine relief efforts.
To get it started, ICBA made a $25,000 donation to the Red Cross. ICBA’s board of directors committed to matching that donation with another $25,000 in contributions of their own – for a total of $50,000.
Now, ICBA is encouraging the B.C. construction community to step forward and donate as well at www.redcross.ca/UkraineCrisis/ICBA.
Donations from individuals will be further matched by a federal government program, which means even more money will be raised to help the people of Ukraine who are desperate for relief.
ICBA’s members have also committed to helping any Ukrainian refugee who needs a job find work in the B.C. construction industry.
Canada has a special relationship with Ukraine. More than 1.4 million Canadians can trace Ukrainian heritage, and many of those people have family members in Ukraine, bravely fighting back against this barbaric Russian onslaught to keep their homeland free.
At ICBA, a staff member in our training department is one of those Ukrainian-Canadians – grief-stricken, she texts family and friends back home, hoping they are alive and safe.
“The images and stories coming out of Ukraine are absolutely heartbreaking,” said Gardner. “Our hope is that with millions of lives at stake, this campaign to help aid efforts will inspire others to act and help people in desperate need.”
ICBA has partnered with the Canadian Red Cross on a donation portal. Click HERE (or visit www.redcross.ca/UkraineCrisis/ICBA) to make a donation.