Canadian charity joins forces with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and Corporate Canada to organize support for families in need.

TORONTO, March 14, 2022 – Meagan Bebenek Foundation (operating as Meagan’s HUG) is working in collaboration with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and Canadian Apartment Properties REIT (CAPREIT) to prepare the support infrastructure required to welcome families from Ukraine.

Efforts have been underway to evacuate paediatric patients requiring active cancer treatment from Ukraine. In anticipation of paediatric patients needing to come to Toronto for care, these local partners are collaborating to provide on-the-ground community support to these families.

“Meagan’s HUG has provided hope and support to families affected by paediatric brain tumours for over 20 years. We want to help get our great city ready to welcome any families who are not only caring for a child with cancer, but who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety and treatment,” says Denise Bebenek, Founder, Meagan Bebenek Foundation.

“Toronto has a very strong Ukrainian community all looking for ways to provide support,” says Alexandra Chyczij, President, Ukrainian Canadian Congress – National. “Our community is devastated by the senseless violence and the targeting of civilians forcing millions to flee to neighbouring countries. The impact of this war will be felt for many years to come and UCC stands in support of Ukraine, and we will help in whatever capacity we can.”

Securing accommodations for these families was at the top of the priority list and President & CEO of CAPREIT, Mark Kenney, was quick to lend support and join forces. CAPREIT is offering ten (10) rent-free, fully furnished apartments across the Greater Toronto Area. “We are very pleased to help the important efforts to bring these children and their families to Canada and obtain the critical care they need,” commented Kenney. “We hope to provide a welcoming community that can support any families who arrive to Toronto through their time of immense need. We will continue to look for ways we can help families fleeing Ukraine and provide opportunities to support this community in the weeks and months ahead.”

Various local businesses have also sprung into action to help furnish the apartments while others have provided greatly needed financial support.

“In times of crisis, Toronto residents, businesses and organizations come together to help those who need it. As Mayor, I support the work underway by everyone – including all governments – to help Ukraine and the Ukrainian people,” said Mayor John Tory. “Thank you to Meagan’s HUG for working with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and Canadian Apartment Properties REIT for undertaking this important work to help make a difference.”

To learn more about the Hope For Ukraine campaign or to make a donation please visit meaganshug.com and follow on social @meaganshug on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram