A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who joined us for the “People of Steel” poetry evening

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who joined us for the “People of Steel” poetry evening on June 15 in Ottawa.

It was a small gathering, but the atmosphere was warm, sincere, and intimate — just as a wartime poetry evening should be.

We’re deeply grateful to all who helped make the event possible, who came, supported, and created a space of care and connection.

A special thank you to Oksana Gurska — poet, advocate, and tireless voice for families of prisoners of war — for traveling from Toronto to share her powerful story and strength with us.

We also thank:

- Maryna Popovych, Oksana Kavera and Ukrainian Canadian Social Services Ottawa branch for the sweet treats;

- Café Ukraine and the Ukrainian Youth Association for generously hosting the event in their space

- Knyga.ca for promotional support

-Sofiya Kominko and Natalia Stepaniuk for organizing.

Together, we raised $500 in support of the “Heal a Mother’s Heart” campaign.

These funds will fully cover the participation of one woman who lost her child in the war in a trauma recovery program led by mental health professionals.

You can now read reflections and testimonials from the latest support group on our Facebook page — honest, moving, and full of heart.

Thank you for being a part of this evening and project.