Toledo Helps Ukraine will host a pysanky (Ukrainian Easter egg) workshop and sale of traditional European baked goods on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Rossford Recreation Center, 400 Dixie Highway, Rossford.
“Toledo Helps Ukraine seeks any possible way to raise funds to support Ukrainians impacted by Russia’s invasion,” said Alona Matchenko, president of the organization. “This is an opportunity for Americans to connect in a meaningful way, making a real impact while also gaining something valuable— whether it’s cultural, educational or personally fulfilling.”
“We will teach participants the ancient art of Ukrainian egg decorating, while supporting those who need it most,” Matchenko said. “Every decorated egg represents not just a tradition, but a stand for Ukrainian freedom, resilience and hope.”
Psyanky making is a Ukrainian art form rooted in centuries of tradition. The intricately decorated eggs are rich in symmetry and reflect numerous folk and religious themes. The word pysanky is derived from the Ukrainian verb pysaty, which means “to write.” Artists use a special writing tool, called a kistka, which is dipped in hot bees wax and then used to “write” the designs on the egg. The folklore surrounding pysanky varies from representing the return of spring and sunshine, to the legend of an evil monster that is kept at bay by the number of pysanky people make each year.
“While space for registration of the pysanky workshop is limited, the opportunity to help is not,” said Matchenko. “If people cannot attend the workshop, we ask them to consider donating, purchasing our baked goods or contributing to shipping costs to ensure aid reaches those in need.”
The sale of baked goods will include homemade kolachy, nut and poppy seed rolls and sweet raisin bread.
The workshop is sponsored by the Toledo Women’s Bar Association. All proceeds will be used for the humanitarian work of Toledo Helps Ukraine, a local 501c3 nonprofit.
To register, go to form. jotform.com/2505940781821 59.
