Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Ottawa

Transforming Lives - Serving Ottawa's Ukrainian Community and Supporting Displaced Families from Ukraine

Soniashnyk (Sunflower) Camp Extended in 2024

Day camps and overnight camps aren't just something to do when school's out - they're life-changing experiences.

Ukrainian Sunflower Summer Camp was established in 2022 as a result of Russia’s unwarranted attack on Ukraine and Ottawa became home for so many displaced Ukrainians.

Our camp was so successful we repeated it in 2023. Sadly, we could only accommodate 40 children and many had to be turned away as the application wait list grew and grew.

This year we’re expanding and are adding another week at Lac Newcombe and a day camp in Ottawa which means we can now accommodate 120 children. Priority will be given to those children newly arrived in Ottawa from Ukraine.

We’re very excited but know it cannot be successful without financial help from our new and loyal donors. Just click the "Donate" button below and it will only take a few minutes to make your donation.

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$600 will sponsor one child but any amount is greatly appreciated. All donations are tax deductible.
Our charitable registration number is 89174 3973 RR0001

To register your child send an Email to camp@ucssottawa.com

Payment may be made through bank transfer to ucss@xata.ca

Camp at the Lake

July 14 - 20 and July 28 - Aug. 3

For girls and boys ages 8 - 13

To be held at Newcombe Lake, QC

A wide range of activities will be held, including swimming, fishing, canoeing, sports and games, dancing, singing and drawing, all helping the children build confidence, teamwork skills and develop a positive attitude towards life.

There is also an educational and cultural aspect. From the Ottawa community we have Ukrainian dance teachers, art teachers, and volunteers to teach safe canoeing. The days end with story telling and fireside chats.

This year we're adding a new twist: a theme.

For the week of July 14 to 20, our theme will be TREASURE ISLAND.

All adventure and mystery lovers will like this theme. Throughout the week, the children will take part in pirate parties, team quests, secret codes, and treasure hunts.

For the week of July 28 - August 3, the theme is THE JUNGLE IS CALLING.

Would your child love to go on an incredibly exciting journey, a world of adventure in the African jungle? Does he or she have a dream to transform into an aboriginal? Feel like a character in the computer game "Jumanji? Or to take part in a quest with deciphering secret codes and route maps? Then this theme is for her or him.

While we are asking families who can afford it to contribute a $600. registration fee for each child, the majority of those who have already applied aren't able to contribute so they will be sponsored by donations from our new and dedicated donors.

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Camp in the City

July 22 - 26, 2024 / 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

For girls and boys ages 8 - 13

Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral Assumption of the Blessed Virgin

In our experience we know that many displaced families suffer from separation anxiety. Whether it be the child who is frightened to be taken away from his/her mother, the mother fearing for her child being out of sight or in some cases, a combination of both.

Because of this we have developed a day camp so while allowing the children to have fun throughout the day, they will be safely back with their family at 5.00 p.m.

We've also found that the children miss their language, their traditions, so the weeks activities, meals and traditions will be tailored to create "a little piece of home".

The theme for the week will be UKRAINIAN FOLK BATTLES and the activities will feature folk songs and dances. There will also be exciting quizzes and contests, an interesting game quest, arts and crafts and a culinary master class on making delicious dumplings.

While we are asking families who can afford it to contribute a $400. registration fee for each child, the majority of those who have already applied aren't able to contribute so they will be sponsored by donations from our new and dedicated donors.

Donate Now

Support Our Cause: Donate Today

Your contribution can make a significant impact on our initiatives at UCSS Ottawa. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us provide essential support to the Ukrainian community and offer assistance to those in need. Join us in our mission to create positive change, uplift lives, and make a difference. Your generosity matters, so please consider making a donation today to help us continue our vital work. All donations are tax deductible.

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