KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A recent charity concert held in a secret location in Kyiv brought together over 1,000 soldiers and civilians to support Ukraine's troops. The event featured a live performance of the charity album 'Epoch,' a collaborative effort between the 3rd Assault Brigade and eight Ukrainian bands. The goal of the project is to raise 50 million hryvnias (about $1.2 million) to purchase an armored personnel carrier for military operations.
Since its launch on streaming platforms, the initiative has raised 9 million hryvnias (around $214,000). Grassroots fundraising for Ukrainian fighters has been ongoing since 2014, with various organizations and individuals contributing to support the military.
Advertisements in Kyiv now encourage donations to address financial shortfalls in the military. By scanning QR codes, people can contribute towards purchasing essential items like body warmers, drones, and armored vehicles for soldiers on the front line.
Despite the initial surge in donations during the early stages of the conflict, some charity groups are experiencing a decline in contributions due to economic challenges in the country. The Come Back Alive foundation, for instance, has seen a decrease in funding compared to previous years.
The war in Ukraine has taken a toll on the economy, leading to an increase in poverty levels. To assist vulnerable populations, the government has implemented a winter support program offering financial aid to millions of individuals.
Local initiatives and personal fundraising efforts have become more prevalent, with many individuals choosing to support specific soldiers or units they know personally. However, larger organizations emphasize the importance of broader support to address urgent military needs.
International aid also plays a crucial role in donation levels, with a decrease in support potentially impacting local contributions. Events like the charity concert serve as reminders of the ongoing conflict and encourage continued support for Ukraine's troops.
The 'Epoch' album features young Ukrainian artists from various music genres, reflecting the realities of living through the conflict. The project aims to showcase contemporary artists' perspectives on the situation in Ukraine and promote Ukrainian culture through music.
Since the start of the conflict, Ukrainian music has experienced a resurgence, with artists emphasizing their cultural identity and distancing themselves from traditional Russian influences. The music industry serves as a platform for expressing national pride and solidarity during challenging times.
For more updates on the war, visit AP's coverage.
