Summer and carnivals go together like peanut butter and jam.
And for the first time in two years, a beloved Port Coquitlam carnival is returning this week that'll also act as a fundraiser amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The Astoria Retirement Residences' annual summer carnival has been on hiatus after its 2020 and 2021 events were cancelled due to then gathering restrictions in place by the COVID-19 pandemic.
This time, all proceeds from the carnival will be earmarked for the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal, organized by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.
It works with Ukrainian government ministries and ensures donations that come in meet the immediate needs of displaced citizens.
Astoria's event this year is set to feature carnival games with lots of prizes up for grabs, food vendors, a 50/50 draw and a dunk tank.
As well, patrons will get to throw pies in volunteers' faces at $5 each in adding to the fundraising efforts.
Local band Music Variations and magician Rod Boss will provide entertainment during the festivities.
The Astoria summer carnival is set for Wednesday (July 13) from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Donald Walkway — located next to the main building (2245 Kelly Ave.).
Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West will also be on hand to deliver the first pitch to the dunk tank at 2:15 p.m.
For more information about the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, you can visit the CUF's website.
The CUF and other governing bodies reach 25,000 Internally Displaced Persons each week, according to its profile, as well as 50,000 vulnerable residents in cities and towns "recently liberated by the Ukrainian army from Russian occupation."
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