When children in Lviv, Ukraine, slip into fairy tale costumes this Christmas, it won’t just be for the joy of dressing up. It will also be a comforting reminder of kindness from the other side of the world. The Morris Hills HOPE Club is working to collect costumes for children in need, hoping to brighten up their holidays.

The Ukraine Costume Drive is one of the many ways the HOPE Club supports families affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine. The club’s members have helped make a difference by collecting, packaging, and sending costumes, toys, and winter essentials to children at the Funny Bunny Kindergarten in Lviv.

Linda Nichvoloda, a member HOPE Club that has played a huge role in organizing the drive, explained that they “choose a group of children who would most benefit from holiday gifts,” adding that this year’s drive aims to provide costumes for children aged two to seven. Their work last year helped provide lots of happiness for families whose lives had been affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

This year, the HOPE Club is determined to make the Ukraine Costume Drive an even bigger success. To fund the shipping, the club will hold fundraisers, including a Jeans Friday event and a petting zoo and bake sale at White Meadow Lake Holiday Festivals.

The club’s teachers and community members are also stepping in to help cover costs. “In a country torn by war, it’s very important to make children happy during holidays,” Linda pointed out, emphasizing how even small gestures can make a big difference.

As the HOPE Club’s Ukraine Costume Drive moves into its second year, its members and community supporters remain focused on one goal: bringing to Ukrainian children who deserve it the most. With every costume, toy, and winter item they send, they send hope and unity along with it.