Regina Ukrainian hall launches GoFundMe after weekend fire

Regina’s Ukrainian Hall is working out what the next steps are after a weekend fire damaged its building.

Regina’s Ukrainian Hall is seeking public assistance after a weekend fire damaged its building.

The Ukrainian National Federation of Canada – Regina Branch (UNF) has launched a GoFundMe to help deal with the expenses.

Olena Shyian, a past president of the UNF Regina Branch, said the Saturday blaze might have resulted in a total loss, adding that the community is devastated.

“We are really thankful to everyone who has reached out, messaged us, extended their condolences … and offer support. We will need support and we will appreciate your support,” she told CTV News on Sunday.

“It looks like the main hall and the upstairs has burned completely and the basement is completely flooded.”

The UNF announced the launch of the GoFundMe on Monday.

“Celebrating the Ukrainian community and culture at our hall has been central to the Regina branch. The hall has served as a meeting place for the public and Ukrainians.” said UNF vice-president Sean McEachern in Monday’s release.

“The hardwood floors have seen hundreds of dances, socials, weddings, and banquets. It’s hosted public theatre and movie showings and is home to the Chaban Ukrainian Dance School, Ridna Shkola (a Ukrainian language and culture school for children), MUNO Youth, Chumaky Dragon Boat team, and various social and cultural events.”

The UNF says its board will be exploring its options for the future. In the meantime, its focus will be on ensuring programming like Ridna Shkola and other community events and activities continue after summer.

On Saturday morning, Regina Fire posted on social media that its crews responded to a blaze on the 1700 block of St. John Street around 6:38 a.m.

When they responded, crews found fire on the second floor and in the roof.

A search of each floor was completed and no injuries were reported.

Shyian told CTV News that the building’s archival room upstairs was completely burned, along with the stage and all the backdrops that were at least 80 years old.

She also said the hall’s oil paintings were lost.

“So basically, all of the historical importance and relevance that we had is gone now,” she added.

The investigation by Regina Fire and Protective Services into the cause and extent of damages caused by the blaze, is ongoing.