The town of Hilton Head partnered with community nonprofits and religious organizations to host a fundraiser in support of those in Ukraine during the ongoing Russian invasion.
Rabbi Brad Bloom of Hilton Heads Congregation Beth Yam said he was inspired to find a way to help Ukraine after hearing of the destruction that's taken place there. He said they partnered with international nonprofits World Central Kitchen and Doctors Without Borders to use the money collected throughout the day to provide humanitarian aid.
"We are here today because we refuse to be silent in the face of evil," Bloom said. "We are here to save lives. Our effort here is about providing medical and food for refugees outside and inside of Ukraine."
Bloom added that he and the mayor of Hilton Head, John McCann, worked together to spearhead the event that included food, vendors, and live performances raising over $100,000.
Mayor John McCann said he felt the need to get involved because he believes if Russia wins this war, their invasion won't stop with Ukraine.
"It's only the start of the world. I mean, when they go to Ukraine, where do they go next? We happen to live in paradise. By living in paradise, we should help other people who don't live in paradise so their lives become better and the rest of the world is more protected," McCann said.
McCann added that he is proud of his town for making their voices heard, and he hopes to continue to create opportunities to send help abroad.
Kateryna Henzler, from Ukraine, spoke to an audience full of blue and yellow to share her family's experience since the war began.
"It's very scary. I'm blessed to be here, but at the same time, I wish I was there with my family to hug them," Henzler said.
She said her family is under the constant threat of danger, and her home is unrecognizable.
"My family, my mom, my dad, my younger brother, and my grandpa are still home. They are in and out of a bomb shelter," Henzler said. "They live in Zaporizhzhia, which was a beautiful city before the war. It was just amazing and so peaceful."
Henzler said although it is painful to be so far from family, she is glad to see her new home of Hilton Head come together and support people across the world.