Update March 19, 6 p.m.: The first batch of hearts has sold out, but preorders are being accepted for the next batch available in 3-4 weeks. The mugs are still available via silent auction on March 25.
Turning on the news these days is very difficult. The war in Ukraine is heartbreaking. Canadians are wondering what they can do to help the citizens of Ukraine, particularly the women and children who are fleeing for their safety into different countries.
Karen Gray at the Potter’s Studio and Gallery thought just that. With a little encouragement from her friend Mary Spring, Gray got to work and began to make some Hearts for Ukraine.
Each Heart for Ukraine is cut to shape by hand, and then painted blue. A sunflower is carved into the clay, again by hand. The next step is the painting of the yellow colour onto the flowers and letting them dry thoroughly. This step is followed by two kiln firings. A clear glaze is applied between first and second kiln firings. A small hole at the top of the heart allows for a ribbon to be attached.
“Hearts for Ukraine” will add to a room’s décor and could be used as a gift, a wine bottle charm, or an ornament. They could be hung in windows to show support for Ukraine. The hearts could inspire something very meaningful in a home or business.
A limited number of Hearts for Ukraine (32 in total) will be sold with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to the Canadian Red Cross. The Canadian Red Cross provides humanitarian assistance to people who are fleeing their homes.
The Red Cross also works with governments in neighbouring countries, calling on them to keep their borders open to those seeking safety and protection. Gray and Spring hope that the funds will help the women and children who are fleeing Ukraine at this dangerous time.
If you are interested in participating in Hearts for Ukraine for your home or business, contact Mary Spring at [email protected]. Karen Gray has donated 32 hearts, and it is their hope that the sales will raise some much needed funds for Ukraine.
Although they suggest a minimum donation of $20 for a heart, it is their hope that you will open up your heart to the enormous humanitarian need in the Ukraine and consider donating more. Donations of $20 or more will receive a tax receipt from the Canadian Red Cross.
Hearts for Ukraine must be pre-ordered and will be available by email until all 32 are sold. Once your purchase is confirmed by return email, your heart will be available for pick up on Friday, March 25 at the Family Place Restaurant and Pizza any time after noon. Please place your donation, either cash or cheque, into an envelope. Print your name and address on the envelope if you need a tax receipt. Seal the envelope and deliver it to the Family Place on Friday. Cheques should be written to the Canadian Red Cross. Spring will ensure that your donation receives an income tax receipt for 2022.
Gray has also crafted four mugs that she will donate for a silent auction on March 25. The mugs will be on display at the Family Place Restaurant and you can bid when you pick up your heart. The reserve bid for each mug will be $45 and all of the donations will go directly to the Canadian Red Cross.
Ukraine is a long way away, but our small community can help. Please consider making a donation on behalf of your business or your family to the Canadian Red Cross by participating in the Hearts for Ukraine campaign.
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