After 18 months of sustained operations thanks to the support of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress - Manitoba and our team of 300+ volunteers, the decision has been made to pause operations of the UCC MB Welcome Desk at the Winnipeg Airport effective September 15.
I want to personally thank all volunteers who dedicated their time to help welcome thousands of Ukrainians to our city and our province. The Welcome Desk made a first-impression that was felt by many, as nearly 20,000+ people have arrived in Manitoba to date.
Many thanks to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport for their steadfast support since Day 1 and their staff going above-and-beyond for our team and arrivals. UCC MB presented a gift of thanks and appreciation to them earlier this morning.
To fellow coordinators Svitlana, Halyna Shtoyko, and Ostap Skrypnyk, thank you for your organization, commitment, and answering the many phone calls at 1:00 am.
While Ukrainians continue to arrive every day, the numbers have stabilized. Plans are in place in case of a significant spike of arrivals moving forward. Guidance materials for arrivals will also remain at the airport as well as the sunflower greeting wall, which has become a fixture and social media gathering spot - for Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians alike.
Lastly, please continue to support Ukraine and its people!🇺🇦🇨🇦
