Smerekova Khata in New Jersey hosted a charity event, "Christmas Star of Freedom, Unity and Hope," which brought together the Ukrainian and Georgian communities in an atmosphere of Christmas spirit and solidarity. Guests enjoyed Georgian dances, a traditional Ukrainian nativity scene, a festive buffet and speeches by distinguished guests.
This was reported by Maryna Vlasiuk, President of USA STANDS WITH UKRAINE.
"On December 14, a landmark event took place in New Jersey - the grand opening of the Smerekova Hata Day Center for People of Pre-Retirement and Retirement Age. The opening of the center, symbolically named "Christmas Star of Hope, Peace and Freedom," was not only the beginning of a new chapter for the community, but also a celebration of the unity of two cultures - Ukrainian and Georgian," said Maryna Vlasiuk.
The event began with a prayer service for Ukraine and Georgia, led by a Ukrainian priest, which sent everyone in the room into a wave of spirituality and unity.
Then the national anthems of the United States, Ukraine and Georgia were played, emphasizing the unity of the audience. After a moment of silence, the Georgian dance group Pesvebi NJ took the stage and impressed with their skillful performances.
"The program of the evening was decorated with Ukrainian songs that touched the deepest strings of the soul, especially the song "Cranes" sung by Galina Melekh, which brought tears to many of those present. Georgian dances added dynamism, liveliness and energy to the evening, emphasizing the strength and passion of Georgian culture," Vlasiuk added.
Ukrainian songs performed by the Rodina Band added a national flavor to the event, and the performance of pianists Andriy and Blia Burdinski emphasized the high level of the musical program.
Guests had the opportunity to purchase Ukrainian books and embroidered shirts, thus supporting national traditions. A special moment of the evening was the performance of the Vertep with the participation of USA STANDS WITH UKRAINE participants, who recreated the Christmas story, and the didukh and the Christmas star became the central symbols of the holiday. It is worth noting that this project has been an author's project of the foundation for the second year in a row, created on the initiative of Maryna Vlasiuk.
Festive tables organized by Olya Samborska and Bread House offered Ukrainian and Georgian dishes, creating an atmosphere of hospitality and unity.
The evening culminated in a flag auction, the proceeds of which went to help those in need. Gifts from Mikhail Stepanov and contributions from Mike Strong became symbols of true friendship and support.
An original song performed by Natasha Stepanova, accompanied by her daughter, added to the nostalgic feel of the evening.
"That night, Smerekova Hata became a center of the Ukrainian soul, a meeting place of cultures and generations.
"Smerekova Khata is a new space for the community. It's not just a day care center for pre-retirees and retirees - it's the first Ukrainian project of this size in America, and a cultural center. Here, those who have fled the war will find not only the support they need, but also new friends, inspiration and a chance to return to life," added Maryna Vlasiuk.
Author: Danylo Pievchev