In New York City, on the grounds of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church on Staten Island, the 13th Ukrainian Charity Festival was held, bringing together hundreds of community members in support of Ukrainian defenders. All funds raised during the event will be directed to assist the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
This was reported by the festival organizers.
The festival began with the Divine Liturgy, after which guests were welcomed to a rich cultural and charitable program. The event was traditionally held on the grounds of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church on Staten Island and became one of the largest Ukrainian community celebrations in the area.
Visitors had the opportunity to enjoy performances by Ukrainian artists, children’s creative groups, and dance ensembles. This year’s festival headliner was Serhiy Lazanovskyi, winner of the television project The Voice of Ukraine, who performed together with Roman Kalyn of the band Gryndzholy. Iryna Sakhariieva, Maria Shchupak, the duet Kryla consisting of Andriy and Yaryna Zatonskyi, the band Charky, Solomiia Ivanochko, and other performers also appeared on stage.
Children’s groups held a special place in the program. The Yunost dance ensemble and students of Kryla Vocal & Art Studio presented their creative numbers, and for many of them, it was their first performance on a large stage. The children’s choir Moloda Dumka also performed at the festival, concluding its academic year with a vibrant concert program under the direction of conductor Vasyl Hrechynskyi.
In addition to the festive concert, guests had the opportunity to taste traditional Ukrainian dishes, take part in a charity auction, a 50/50 raffle in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, visit a photo zone, and join various community initiatives. Among the auction lots were memorabilia connected to Valerii Zaluzhnyi and Ihor Lapin.
Once again, the festival became not only a cultural event but also an important platform for consolidating New York’s Ukrainian community. Participants emphasized that Ukrainian music, traditions, and a shared charitable purpose help maintain a connection with the homeland while also providing real assistance to Ukrainian service members.
The organizers noted that the festival’s main goal remains supporting Ukraine and its defenders. That is why all funds raised during the event will be transferred to meet the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. For many years, the Ukrainian community of Staten Island has been holding this festival, combining the preservation of cultural heritage with charitable assistance to Ukraine amid the war.
Photo: Ukrainian children’s choir Moloda Dumka
Author: Inna Mikhno