Contractors raising funds for Ukraine

March 16, 2022


Rescue service works near homes destroyed by Russian rocket in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Photo by palinchak

The 3,500-member Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) is spearheading a fundraising effort in B.C.’s construction industry to help the people of Ukraine. 
“For two weeks, we have all watched in horror as the Russian army attempts to conquer the independent, democratic nation of Ukraine. The largest military attack Europe has seen since the end of World War II is laying waste to vibrant cities and communities and indiscriminately killing innocent civilians,” said ICBA president Chris Gardner. “Our members have been asking us how they can help – so we are working to raise money for the Red Cross’ relief efforts.”
On March 8 the ICBA kicked off a campaign challenging all construction contractors to raise money for Ukraine relief efforts.
To get it started, ICBA made a $25,000 donation to the Red Cross. ICBA’s board of directors committed to matching that donation with another $25,000 in contributions of their own—for a total of $50,000.
ICBA is encouraging the entire construction community to step forward and donate, as well.
Donations from individuals will be further matched by a federal government program.
ICBA’s members have also committed to helping any Ukrainian refugee who needs a job to find work in the B.C. construction industry. 
Canada has a special relationship with Ukraine. More than 1.4 million Canadians have Ukrainian heritage, and many of those people have family members in Ukraine who are fighting back against a Russian onslaught to keep their homeland free.
“The images and stories coming out of Ukraine are absolutely heartbreaking,” said Gardner. “Our hope is that with millions of lives at stake, this campaign to help aid efforts will inspire others to act and help people in desperate need.”
ICBA has partnered with the Canadian Red Cross. Visit
www.redcross.ca/UkraineCrisis/ICBA to make a donation.