Sasha, Katrin, and Tim are a young Ukrainian family that found themselves, like so many others, without a home when Russia invaded.

They fled from their home in Kiev and through a generous offer, housing was secured in Kimberley and funds are being raised to support the family for the first year that they are here, so they can settle well without any worries of finances.

One way money has been raised for the family occurred during Kimberley-based artist Elaine Rudser’s and her daughter Lauren’s art exhibition at Art Gallery Kimberley in July.

“Elaine, who is famous for her exquisite sock monkeys, created a wool needle-felted character called a “Blobby” that was inspired by the famous gesture of a Ukrainian soldier on Snake Island to the Russian ship offshore this past February. Ukraine memorialized that moment with a postage stamp. Elaine partnered with Summit Church pastor Elizabeth Jorgensen to donate the proceeds of the silent auction of her Blobby to this family,” explained Art Gallery Kimberley owner Irma de Visser.

Barbara Rocae’s generous winning bid helped change this “Blobby” creature into a force for good in our world.

“By helping this Ukrainian family escape war and resettle in our community, the first step has been taken for sock monkeys and Blobbies around the world to unite to lessen human suffering,” de Visser added.

“Many thanks to everyone who donated to this cause. All donations are used to support Sasha, Katrin, and Tim with their monthly financial needs.”

Lead image: Left to right: Elizabeth Jorgensen, Barbara Rocae and Elaine Rudser. Photo submitted

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