Three local sisters who each own a crafting business joined forces this month to raise money for a Ukrainian family who have made their way to Kenner.
It all started when Jerri Lynn Cooper of Des Allemands spoke to a friend who will be housing Ukrainian refugees.
“My friend came to me with a hurting heart,” Cooper said. “She works with a lady from Ukraine. The family is related to her and will be staying with her.”
The refugees include twin 13-year-old boys and their mother.
“They left Ukraine on foot,” Cooper said. “They walked for six hours to Poland but had to leave their dad and husband behind. Hearing this and the mere thought of leaving my husband and everything we know to usher my kids to safety broke me. I couldn’t stop thinking of it.”
Cooper talked to her sisters – Jamie Hill of Des Allemands and Jodie Matherne of Paradis – and the trio devised a plan to raise money for the family.
“I got with my sisters and we decided to be difference makers,” Cooper said.
Cooper – who runs Lil Sprouts – made a cup and shirt, Hill donated earrings from Handmade By Hill and Matherne donated a keychain from Oh Seaux Magical VIPS. Cooper announced a $5-a-chance raffle on Facebook for the package of items, with all proceeds benefitting the family.
“I never doubt the love that this community has, but this outpouring has been nothing short of amazing,” Cooper said. “I feel like everyone wants to help the Ukraine, but no one really knows how at this point. So when I opened the door it was just an easy way for our community to share the love.”
The sisters raised nearly $1,700 for the family.
“I am also working on a way to send additional funding to Ukrainians that are unable to leave,” Cooper said. “If we can make that happen I’ll do a second fundraiser. I’m praying God opens that door as well.”
Cooper said she would announce any additional fundraisers or donation opportunities for the family on her Facebook page.
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