WAWOTA - Earlier this year, Gracie Rohatyn made a quilt for a young Ukrainian girl and hoped to give it to her once she arrived in Canada.
Gracie is a 12-year-old girl from Regina, but her great-grandmother Dorothy Rohatyn lives in Wawota.
Gracie was at Rohatyn’s home when the news came on TV about Russia’s war against Ukraine. Gracie asked her great grandmother what this meant, and upon explaining it to Gracie, it made the young girl extremely sad, and she wanted to do something.
They sent money to help families, but Gracie wanted to do something more personal for a family with a young girl. This is when the quilt began.
Gracie just started sewing at Christmas and her grandma had an unfinished quilt. It was decided that Gracie would complete this quilt with help, with the intent to give it to a Ukraine girl.
Now fast forward to June when the Ukrainian family arrived to live in Wawota. The father, Andrii Mishtal, had arrived a month earlier. Gracie knew the time for the delivery was coming soon.
After a gruelling 28-hour journey, loaded with backpacks and suitcases, the rest of Mishtal’s family would finally be here. This must have been an extremely exciting time for the family. Mishtal’s wife, Svitlana, their 14-year-old son Pavlo, their eight-year-old daughter Polina and their little Yorkie dog Mickey were in Wawota.
Gracie could finally hand deliver her prize quilt that she made especially for a young girl to come to Canada. This was exciting for Gracie.
Mishtal only knew a little English, but with the help of a Google app translator, it all worked out. Once the girls figured out how to use the app, they quickly got to know each other.
The quilt was made with vibrant colours to signify a bright future. A tag was also placed on the border as a special remembrance for the pair. Polina was incredibly grateful for the beautiful gift.
Not to leave anyone out, a throw blanket was given to Pavlo as well. Mickey had a wonderful time with his new tennis ball and squeaky toy, which entertained the quests.
With a committee member present as well, Svitlana served her guests a beverage and ice cream and introduced them to Ukraine candy.
An enjoyable visit was had by all, with the conversation revolving around Canadian customs, school, sports and food.
Pavlo and Polina did attend Wawota Parkland School to familiarize themselves with the layout, staff, and routines of the school. This would make the transition in the fall much easier.
The Mishtal family moved into a fully furnished house in Wawota. Andrii has secured a full-time job and Svitlana is still looking for employment.
The two girls have plans to see each other over the summer holidays.
It is hoped that two more families will arrive in the near future, through the help of the Wawota Ukraine committee.
