Alliance MLA Hosts Nollaig Na mBan for Ukrainian Refugees in South Down
South Down Alliance MLA Patrick Brown hosted a festive event to celebrate Irish ‘Womens Christmas’ for Ukrainian refugees living in the South Down area.
The event took place in Denvir’s Hotel for the Ukrainian families living in Downpatrick, Newcastle, Ballynahinch and surrounding areas joined together for a complimentary meal at Denvir’s in Downpatrick as well as live entertainment and a special visit from Santa.
The event, attended by over 50 Ukrainians with their families, provided a moment of unity as they celebrated their second Christmas since the commencement of the war in February 2022.
Patrick Brown said: “A huge thanks must go to Stephen Magorrian and the team at Denvirs for their kindness and for going out of their way to make this event happen.
“We are now almost two years on from the start of the war in Ukraine, and even though it shows no sign of abating it has sadly dropped off the media agenda significantly.
“It’s therefore very important we do all we can to show local families we are still here to support them, and to help bring them together at this time of year.
“I would also like to extend thanks to the council’s Downpatrick DEA and Good Relations team for sponsoring the event and to Journey Community Church and Fountain Foodbank who provided gifts for the children,” added the South Down MLA.
