With so many concerns weighing on everyday Americans, it can be easy for forget the plight of others. But Natalia Plyam has not forgotten the people of her birth country, Ukraine, many of whom have been forced to flee their homes in the face of war — some coming to Northeast Florida where their families will know safety.
Plyam has worked diligently to see to the needs of these refugees. And she’s inspired the community to do likewise. In fact, people have made so many donations of clothing, furniture, food and more that her garage is no longer her own.
And several area residents have gone so far as to sponsor Ukrainians coming to the United States.
Whole families have arrived over the last year. But they are not looking for a handout.
“They’re very self-sufficient,” Plyam said. “I have to give them props, because most of them work some job. They just start working.”
One young woman Plyam knows found work washing dishes at a local restaurant. Several others have gone to work repairing screens for a Jacksonville business.
But their need remains great.
So, from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, J. McLaughlin at the Shoppes of Ponte Vedra, 330 A1A North, Suite 214, will host a holiday “Sip & Shop” event, with Plyam acting as hostess. That day, 15% of the sales will go to Plyam’s nonprofit, Helping Ukraine Inc. In fact, even purchases made earlier that day will qualify if the customer requests.
Plyam will have a box at the event for people who want to donate gift cards or by check. These, Plyam, said are actually better than donating items because the families can use them for whatever they need most.
Plyam praised the people at J. McLaughlin for allowing her to raise both funds and awareness.
“They are very, very sweet to do that,” she said.
