Stand with the Svechkas – Help Keep a Beloved Family in Canada
The Svechka family—Romana, Vlad, and their 14-year-old daughter Leila—arrived in Parry Sound in 2022, seeking safety from the war in Ukraine. Since then, they’ve become a vital part of our community.
Romana, born in Ukraine, has been a tireless volunteer and leader, serving as President of the Rotaract Club of Parry Sound while remaining active in Rotary. She was a chief organizer for Hockey Day in Parry Sound, helping feed over 1,000 people, and played a key role in the Festive Feast fundraiser. Vlad is a skilled plumber, contributing his trade locally.
Leila has thrived here—mastering English, building friendships, and excelling in school. She recently graduated from St. Peter’s Catholic School with honours and received the Humanitarian Award for her compassion and leadership. She is deeply connected to her church, classmates, and community.
Now, this family faces imminent deportation due to a rejected refugee claim—based on bad legal advice. If forced back to Russia, they face real danger. Romana has publicly spoken out against the war in Ukraine, and under current Russian law, dissent can result in years—even decades—of prison time.
The Svechkas urgently need legal support to challenge the removal order and apply through a safer pathway to stay in Canada. There is a full page of information Here
You can help. Your donation will:
Fund experienced immigration counsel
Pause the deportation process
Give Leila the future she’s already working so hard to build
The Svechkas have stood with us—now it’s our turn to stand with them.
Donate now and help keep this remarkable family in the community they call home.