UWC’s “Birds of Freedom 2.0” fundraising campaign raises over $390,000 to support Ukrainian Armed Forces

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), in collaboration with the social enterprise Saint Javelin, proudly announces the successful completion of the “Birds of Freedom 2.0” Fundraising Campaign. This initiative has garnered an impressive total of $390,297.56 CAD (approximately $271,220.75 USD or 11.4 million Hryvnia) from 1068 generous donors in 73 countries, allowing the procurement of 660 8-inch and 10-inch FPV drones for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, essential for enhancing Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities amid the Russian Federation’s ongoing war on Ukraine. 

“We are proud that the UWC’s “Birds of Freedom 2.0” campaign has helped to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. We have focused on integrating advanced technologies and unmanned systems, including FPV drones. These tools offer Ukraine’s armed forces crucial real-time intelligence and significantly boost operational effectiveness on the battlefield. These innovative technologies are essential to safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty, protecting lives, and securing victory,” stated UWC President Paul Grod.

To acknowledge the significant contributions of its supporters, the UWC provided exclusive thank-you gifts. These included a limited edition of unique “Birds of Freedom” morale patches worn by drone pilots. Furthermore, higher-level donors had the opportunity to personalize drones with custom inscriptions and messages.

“The results of this fundraiser demonstrate the immense power of collective giving. Every donation, regardless of its size, plays a crucial role in enhancing Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities. The support from our donors empowers Ukraine’s armed forces and sends a strong message of solidarity to those who are fighting for freedom,” said Andrew Potichnyj, Director of the “Unite with Ukraine” initiative at the Ukrainian World Congress.

So far, 350 FPV drones, specifically 8-inch and 10-inch models, have been procured and distributed to various units within the Ukrainian military to enhance their capabilities. These units include:

• The Special Purpose Unit “Kryla” of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
• The 1st Battalion of the 12th Special Operations Brigade “Azov” of the National Guard of Ukraine.
• The 48th Separate Assault Battalion named after Noman Çelebicihan from the 123rd Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces.
• The “Kotyky” unit of the 130th Battalion from the 241st Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces.
• The “Honor” unit of DaVinci’s Wolves Battalion in the 59th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade.
• The 215th Battalion of the 125th Separate Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces.

Since its inception in February 2022, the UWC’s “Unite With Ukraine” initiative has raised over $60 million to supply critical tactical medical supplies, armored vehicles, UAV complexes, FPV drones, reconnaissance systems, and other essential equipment to various branches of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.

Saint Javelin is a social enterprise established in February 2022 by former Canadian journalist Christian Borys. Initially starting with just one sticker, the brand has since expanded into a clothing line that has donated $2.5 million to support Ukrainian charities and the military.

Further donations to the “Birds of Freedom 2.0” campaign can be made at unitewithukraine.com/provide.