Leitrim Ukrainians say "100,000 Thanks" on the 1,000th day of war
Ukrainians in Leitrim have expressed their gratitude to the local community for the support and welcome they have received since their arrival.
Ukrainian frontline workers from across Ireland gathered in Dublin on Thursday, November 21 to mark 1,000 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Among over 104,000 Ukrainians in Ireland, Leitrim is home to almost 2,000 individuals who have sought refuge.
On this milestone, Ukrainians in Leitrim have expressed their gratitude to the local community for the support and welcome they have received since their arrival.
A number of initiatives have been set up in Leitrim to help integrate Ukrainians into the community, such as language and employment support and cultural activities.
Leitrim Development Company (LDC) has wholeheartedly supported the "100,000 Thanks" campaign and its goals to raise awareness, provide accurate information, and advocate for the long-term integration of Ukrainians in Ireland.
LDC has been at the forefront of supporting Ukrainian refugees in Leitrim, facilitating integration, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Their programmes such as "Connect Café,” “Quiz Nights,” and "Family Fun Day," bring together Ukrainians and the wider community, fostering friendships and understanding.
Leitrim-based Ukrainian Nataliya Byelyakova has been working to help Ukrainians settle into Leitrim’s community.
She has thanked local communities for their welcome and help in integrating.
“It's been amazing to see our community grow to almost 2,000 people over the past 1,000 days! We're so thankful to everyone in Leitrim for being so welcoming, it's truly made a difference,” Natalia said.
“My job is all about helping Ukrainians settle in and thrive. We're busy with all sorts of things, like English classes, helping people find jobs or even start businesses, getting kids into schools, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable and connected.”
The Carrick-on-Shannon Ukrainian Weekend School which started in September of this year has made a big difference to the Ukrainian community in Leitrim.
“We have around 40 children attending, and it's been incredible to see them connect with their language and culture while making new friends,” Natalia said.
“We have a dedicated team of teachers who are all Ukrainian and bring a wealth of experience and passion to the classroom.”
Every weekend, five Ukrainian teachers volunteer at the local camp, dedicated to helping children remain connected to their cultural roots amidst the upheaval of fleeing war.
Additionally, two Ukrainian women, Irina and Svetlana pose as a great example of integration into Leitrim life.
The women have embraced their new beginning by starting their own bakery business, ‘Ukrainian Bakery.’
Irina from Chernihiv has a Master’s degree in Psychology, and is also a trained stylist. Svetlana, from Bila Tserkva, has a strong sales background in baking and confectionery.
After meeting in Leitrim, the pair decided to offer a taste of their homeland through their baked goods.
Irina and Svetlana sell their goods at the Manorhamilton Farmer’s Market every Friday, and at Sligo Farmer’s Market every Saturday.
Speaking at the event in Dublin on November 21, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Ireland Larysa Gerasko said: “In this difficult time for Ukrainians we want to support our communities all over Ireland.
“It’s very important to keep connections to our Ukrainian community, while integrating with Irish society.
“We hope Ukrainians will become an integral part of Irish society and we note how many people are now working here.
“But also we are interested in returning our Ukrainians back home after the war, when Ukraine will be safe and secure for living again,” Ms Gerasko concluded.
As the “100,000 Thanks” campaign highlights, Leitrim’s efforts reflect the bonds of friendship and solidarity formed within the county in the past 1,000 days.
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