Support Those Who Served
Every generation of veterans understands a simple truth: we take care of our own. The Ukrainian American Veterans (UAV) has long upheld that tradition through the UAV National Welfare Fund, a program dedicated to helping veterans in times of hardship.
As we enter 2026, the UAV National Welfare Fund Drive is once again underway—an important effort to provide assistance to fellow veterans who need support when life’s challenges arise.
Why the UAV National Welfare Fund Matters
Each year, the Welfare Fund Committee receives requests from veterans seeking help during difficult circumstances. These may include unexpected financial hardship, health-related challenges, or other misfortunes that can affect veterans and their families.
With every passing year, the number of applications for assistance continues to grow. At the same time, many members of our community are aging, and the need for support becomes more pressing.
The UAV Welfare Fund exists to ensure that no Ukrainian American veteran faces hardship alone.
2025 by the Numbers: Impact and Support
The success of the Welfare Fund depends on the generosity and participation of the UAV community. In 2025, the program continued to make a meaningful difference.
Highlights from 2025 include:
- $12,240 in donations from 101 members, representing 22.4% of membership participation
- $4,250 in donations from 6 Ukrainian credit unions
- 11 grants to members, totaling $13,750 in direct assistance
- 2 grants supporting a Gap Analysis Trip to Ukraine, totaling $9,000
These numbers represent more than dollars—they represent veterans helping veterans.
Leadership Supporting the Mission
The Welfare Fund has benefited from the dedicated leadership of the UAV’s national welfare officers.
Roman Stefaniuk served as UAV National Welfare Officer from October 2016 until October 2025. During his tenure, he helped oversee the program that provided direct assistance to veterans in need and strengthened the Welfare Fund’s ability to respond to requests for aid.
Following his retirement from the role in October 2025, he was succeeded by James Fedorko, who now leads the effort as chairman of the UAV National Welfare Fund Committee and continues the mission of supporting veterans across the organization.
A Tradition of Generosity
The Welfare Fund Drive succeeds because of the dedication and generosity of the UAV community. In past years, veterans and supporters have responded with remarkable generosity, helping the organization provide meaningful aid to those in need.
The committee extends sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed in previous campaigns. Your support has made a real difference in the lives of fellow veterans.
How You Can Help
The Welfare Fund Committee is once again appealing to veterans and friends of the community for their support.
Your contribution will directly assist veterans who require financial assistance during times of misfortune.
Donations are tax-deductible and can be made by check or money order payable to:
UAV National Welfare Fund
Please include your contact information and return your donation so a receipt can be sent promptly.
Where to Send Your Donation
UAV National Welfare Fund
Chairman: James Fedorko
84 East Van Ness Avenue
Rutherford, NJ 07070
Online Donations to the UAV National Welfare Fund
You may also donate to the UAV Welfare Fund online. Please use the button below to make your secure online donation. The form will ask you to choose a fund for your donation, so please select “Welfare Fund” from the dropdown list. You may donate using PayPal, Venmo, debit card, or credit card.
Continuing the Mission
The Ukrainian American veteran community has always been defined by service, sacrifice, and solidarity. The National Welfare Fund continues that mission by ensuring that those who served are supported when they need it most.
By contributing to the 2026 UAV National Welfare Fund Drive, you are helping preserve a tradition of mutual support that has defined our community for generations.
Stand with your fellow veterans. Support the Welfare Fund. Help a fellow veteran today.