The Friendship City relationship between the County of Prince Edward and Krasyliv, Ukraine, took another step forward with the recent launch of a fundraising project.
“At its heart, a Friendship City relationship is a community-focused partnership. It is about building connections, sharing ideas, and promoting our communities,” Mayor Steve Ferguson says. “We are excited to build on this meaningful relationship and fostering this ongoing partnership between our communities.”
The Krasyliv Friendship City Working Group recently hosted a project and fundraising launch event on Monday, June 29 at The Andrew in Picton. During the event, the working group detailed its plans to raise funds for the purchase of 200 soccer balls for elementary schools in Krasyliv.
“Soccer balls may seem simple, but they are a low-cost tool that can have a real and meaningful impact,” Mayor Ferguson says. “Access to soccer balls support mental and physical health, encourage social inclusion, and help children build important life skills.”
After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, County Council passed a resolution directing staff to investigate the establishment of a twin-city relationship with a community in Ukraine. Council stated its desire to forge a partnership with a community of comparable size that had a connection to the delegation of Ukrainians that came to Prince Edward County in 2019.
Staff identified Krasyliv Territorial Community (Krasyliv) as potential partner for a friendship city relationship that met the criteria. After several discussions, the County and Krasyliv entered into a formal Friendship City agreement in September 2025.
In the fall of 2025, the Krasyliv Friendship City Working Group organized a community Christmas Card Campaign. County residents were invited to sign locally designed cards and add messages of support. In total, 492 handwritten cards were sent to schools in Krasyliv in time for the 2025 holiday season.
The working group has continued to build on this connection through new initiatives. During a conversation with Mayor Nila Ostrovska, members asked how Prince Edward County could offer support in a meaningful way. One request stood out: sports equipment for local children.
“During the most difficult time in Ukraine’s history, we have felt the support of the Canadian people, and its value cannot be overstated. Thank you for your solidarity, your compassion, and your willingness to stand with us,” Mayor Ostrovska said in a Canada Day message to the working group. “It is during times of hardship that true friendship is born, and we sincerely appreciate having such friends.”
During the recent fundraising launch event, the working group accepted donations from the Rotary Club of Picton, Councillor Bill Roberts, and the 4H Sport and Nutrition Club.
Members of the public who wish to donate to this initiative can visit the Krasyliv Friendship City webpage on the municipal website to fill out the Canada Helps form.
For more information, contact the County of Prince Edward at 613.476.2148 extension 1023, 613.962.9108 extension 1023, or info@pecounty.on.ca.