WATCH: Performing in solidarity for Ukraine

• 13 bands performed for free
• Way to raise awareness and money for Ukraine
• Celebration of Kelowna’s generous contributions

It has been three months since Russian forces invaded Ukraine but the commitment of the Kelowna community to raise money and awareness about the plight of the war’s victims remains steadfast.

The latest fundraising effort Saturday was a benefit concert at Waterfront Park.

Ray Snitynsky feels a deep attachment to Ukraine and is doing all he can to help out.

“My grandparents came over in 1890 and they came from the Lviv area,” he told Kelowna10. “I have relatives right now that live in and around Lviv, and it’s really tough to hear some of the bombing that’s going on and it is traumatic for them.”

Snitynsky was the Concert for Ukraine host and one of the organizers who made it all happen. He said the goal of the concert is to remind people about what’s going on, while also raising funds for humanitarian aid and to help displaced Ukrainians who have arrived in the city.

“We want to make sure that we’re supporting the freedoms we enjoy here that should be consistent in those European countries,” he said. “We want people to enjoy the music, but we are going to keep reminding people that let’s not take freedom for granted.”

Over the course of the day and into the evening, 13 bands performed. Every genre was represented from jazz to rock and pop. Acts included Steezy Steve, Dirt Road Opera, Scotty Berg, and more.

“We’ve had an overwhelming response of entertainers,” Snitynsky explained. “They’re all local performers so we’re really happy to see that support [and] all the bands are performing for free, so that’s amazing.”

Hundreds of people gathered to watch, and volunteers were collecting donations and selling Ukrainian memorabilia.

To kick off the event, the Kelowna City Concert Band performed the Canadian national anthem. That was followed by the Ukrainian national anthem while a choir of Ukrainians sang along.

Among those singing in front of the crowd was Denys Storozhuk from Kelowna Stands with Ukraine.

“I hope it will turn from somber to more celebration,” he said. “But celebration of the participation of Kelowna residents in these fundraising efforts that we do.”

He said the organization has raised over $300,000 over the past few months.

“That’s something to celebrate because people here make a difference,” Storozhuk said.