Hi there,

The news of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is shocking and scary to say the least. Like many of you, I spent a fair bit of time today refreshing my feed, waiting for any semblance of good news. Instead, we were met with stories of Putin’s threats and grave images of war.

I know it’s difficult to stay hopeful on days like today, but I find comfort in the knowledge that thousands of people bravely marched on Pushkin Square to protest this conflict, that we stand ready to join our NATO allies in support of Ukraine, and that we can offer our help right now.

My team and I compiled a small list of organizations directly responding to the crisis in Ukraine. If you can, please consider making a donation of any amount to support their work:

• United Help Ukraine raises money for humanitarian aid, medical supplies for those injured by war, and support for wounded warriors and families of those wounded or killed in war: Donate here.

• Voices of Children raises money to help provide psychological and psychosocial support for kids in armed conflict areas: Donate here.

• International Committee of the Red Cross offers humanitarian aid supporting the work of the Ukrainian Red Cross: Donate here.

As President Biden said today, in the contest between democracy and autocracy, between sovereignty and subjugation, make no mistake that freedom will prevail.

God bless the people of a free and democratic Ukraine, Ukrainian Americans, and everyone holding them in their hearts.

Thank you,

Tom Perez