Ukrainians that have found a new home in Portage la Prairie attended a concert designed to bring in additional aid.

The Concert for Ukrainian Relief, which was run by Brennans' Bounty and took place on June 23rd at the William Glesby Centre, had Portagers come out to show those impacted by the war on Ukraine that they're welcome here. Tetiana Dolynska moved here from Ukraine and says it's truly great to see.

"There are amazing people everywhere," explains Dolynska. "Since our first step in Canada, we're so grateful for it."

Dolynska mentions, that since her husband is Canadian, she was going to have to wait five years for the proper documentation. However, all that changed when Russia launched its attack on Ukraine, and her documents were rushed to bring her here quickly.

Dolynska wants to spread the message of positivity and moving forward, while not forgetting about those still stuck in Ukraine.

Ken Brennan, the emcee for the event, says everybody was enjoying themselves at the show. He explains that he wants any Ukrainians to feel welcome in Portage, as well as Canada as a whole.

"They're welcome, they're safe here, and we care and their people," explains Brennan. "Ukrainian people are a strong part of the fabric of Canada. They have been and always will be and they got to know that we have their backs."

Brennans' Bounty was hoping to see more people turn up to the William Glesby Centre that evening, noting the venue reached just under half of its capacity. Although disappointed in the sparse attendance, they were happy to raise $3700 for Ukrainian relief.