The western world is heartbroken at the war raging upon the country of Ukraine and its citizens.  Each of us is asking what can we do to help. Grace Church’s GO Committee rose to the forefront over a month ago by setting up an account to receive donations from parishioners and others outside our church family to aid Ukrainian refugees as they leave their country for safe havens.  So far Grace Church has received more than $8,000 in donations and will add another $5,000 from our GO budget to send to the Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) fund for aid to refugees of Ukraine.  If you want to contribute or know those who want to contribute, GO is receiving donations until April 30.  At that time all donations will be sent to ERD.

Perhaps you have heard or read in the Napa Register of the St Helena family, Bob and Jean Edwards, who went on the Internet and found a Ukrainian refugee family of four (soon to be five) that they have welcomed into their home.  While the Edwards are sponsoring the Romanchencko family, Grace’s GO Committee has stepped forward to help them find housing beyond the end of May when the home they are temporarily occupying will be sold. The family consists of Igor, age 31, Anastasia age 30, little Emma age 4 and grandma (Babushka) Lora age 82. – and a baby boy to be delivered at the end of May.

Grace church members as well as community members have come forward with offers of home furnishings and donations of cash for the family.  A GoFundMe fund has been set up, but direct cash donations to the family are encouraged.  If you would like to be of help, contact Norm Manzer (707) 486-1018 or [email protected].  Grace’s Baby Love ministry has already come forward with a $250 Target gift certificate as well as their cherished hand knitted newborn clothing, blankets and other important things. Lucky them, and lucky us.

If you can help in any way, please get in touch with Uncle Norm above. 

The familiar saying, “He/She who saves the life of a child, saves the world” is echoing in our ears.   How would you like to help?