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“We have six staff who were born and raised in Ukraine,” explained Natalie Ortynsky,” adding Terry Ortynsky actually traveled to Ukraine “and recruited them to come to Canada to work.”

And the Ortynsky family immigrated from Ukraine years ago as well, as is the case for many Yorkton and region.

“With everything that has happened in Ukraine it’s been really challenging for staff with family over there,” said Natalie Ortynsky.

The initial reaction to the war was to collect items from staff – medical supplies, children’s items, clothing – for donation to the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC). 

Next, when one of the associates became involved with a steak supper fundraiser at Tapp’s Sports Lounge and Grill, Royal Ford and Royal Honda became locations with tickets. 

“We sold out all the tickets we were assigned,” said Ortynsky, adding it was great to see customers and staff so supportive of the effort. 

Next, corporately a decision was made to donate $100 from each vehicle sale in April, an effort which saw $5400 donated to UCC “to go to help the people in Ukraine,” said Ortynsky. 

And now keychains made by a Saskatchewan artist are being sold at the two locations, again with the $10 per keychain going to UCC. 

“We’re hoping it helps a bit,” said Ortynsky, adding the effort is not huge “but we wanted to show our support. 

“It means a lot to our staff.”