North Salem community turns out to support Ukraine

North Salem community members came out to Hayfields Market Friday night for a benefit event to support Ukrainian refugees. The North Salem Committee for Ukraine organized a special evening that included live music from Andrea And The Armenian Rug Riders, a silent auction, animal ambassadors from Animal Embassy and food and drinks from Hayfields catering.

Andrea And The Armenian Rug Riders performed at the benefit for Ukraine Friday. (Benjamin Allen / HudValley Photo)

Event organizer Rebecca Baldridge said the evening was a fantastic success, with approximately 300 attendees and over $23,000 raised toward the cause.

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“It was really heartening to see how much people care about Ukraine and want to help,” Baldridge said.”It’s vital we realize Ukraine will be suffering for a long time to come and we absolutely cannot rest our efforts.”

Baldridge said that the Committee plans to host similar events in nearby towns, including at the Horse & Hound in South Salem as well as in Ridgefield. Funds raised will be donated directly to refugees in the western Ukrainian town of Izyaslav and to front line soldiers.

Approximately 300 people attended Friday's benefit, raising over $23,000 for humanitarian aid to Ukraine. (Benjamin Allen / HudValley Photo)

“I hope over the next few weeks we can raise significant funds to get a load of desperately needed humanitarian aid, helmets, ballistic vests, tourniquets, and other medical supplies off to Ukraine,” Baldridge said. Baldridge herself plans to deliver a shipment directly to Kyiv in early May. She has a direct connection to the region as previously spent nine years living and working in Russia and Ukraine as an emerging markets investment analyst.

The North Salem Committee for Ukraine plans to host similar events in nearby towns, including at the Horse & Hound in South Salem as well as in Ridgefield. (Benjamin Allen / HudValley Photo)

“I urge everyone to keep Ukraine in their hearts and give generously,” Baldridge said. “Anyone interested in donating money or supplies can get in touch with me directly at 917-776-6031.” Donations can also be made directly to the Tsal Kaplun Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to preserving the cultural heritage of Jewish communities in the former Soviet Union.

Click below to view an image gallery from Friday's event.