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Peace opens fundraising campaign for Turkey, Syria, Ukraine

'I'm grateful for the opportunity to positively impact the world and be a voice for my community'
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Robert Peace in Ukraine in 2022. Photo supplied

Sault Ste. Marie's Robert Peace, already known for his volunteer and humanitarian efforts, is launching an intensive and ambitious two-week aid campaign so he can deliver food to troops in Ukraine, and food and assistance to people in Turkey and Syria.

Peace is no stranger to disaster relief efforts, having travelled to Ukraine last year to deliver more than $12,000 in aid from the people of Sault Ste Marie.

Now he has started a GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/3b1f2299 to raise funds for the victims of the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria and the ongoing war in Ukraine, according to a news release.

"As someone who has lived in the midst of adversity before, I understand the importance of having even a little support during difficult times," said Peace. "That's why I'm passionate about helping those who have been impacted by this natural disaster. I'm grateful for the opportunity to positively impact the world and be a voice for my community.

"Every dollar donated will go directly to providing critical assistance to those affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria and in helping feed those fighting in Ukraine. One year ago today the war on Ukraine began and more help than ever is needed. Two weeks ago an earthquake killed tens of thousands of people and lay ruin to cities much like the bombing has done in Ukraine.”

Peace will be travelling to affected areas, personally delivering aid. He is partnering with Romanian Mitica Laver from Dumnezeu Lucreaza Prin Noi or “God Works Through Us” a registered charity in Romania and the Turkish army to gain access to areas most in need. Negotiations are currently underway to secure entrance into affected areas in Syria. Peace will document his travel for all donors.

"I had the pleasure of working with Robert during our relief efforts in Ukraine, and I am honoured to partner with him again," said Laver, president of Dumnezeu Lucreaza Prin Noi"Robert is a dedicated volunteer with a passion for helping others. I have no doubt that our efforts will make an impact on the lives of those affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

While large charities play their role, I have seen in Ukraine and now in Turkey, it is individual persons and small groups with little to no overhead who are on the ground daily helping where government and aid agencies are slow to move.”
 
He has already travelled to Turkey to deliver aid and has worked daily for the past year in Ukraine.

Peace was recognized in Ottawa by Sault MP Terry Sheehan and awarded the Peace Medal by the YMCA for his volunteerism last year.

I really want to ask the local business community and the city if they might give to this mission. It is a great opportunity for staff of any company or the city to participate directly, and join me virtually in this mission at the locations of the affected areas and learn more about these people in need. It goes far beyond simply donating money – it is a great chance for people to learn,” said Peace.

 

 


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