The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) joins forces with Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) to support the people of Ukraine. SWAU will host an ADRA International Benefit Concert for Ukraine at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Arlington, Texas, to raise funds for ADRA’s emergency response and relief efforts in Ukraine and nearby regions.

ADRA has been assisting the region’s most impoverished communities for the past 30 years. Since the armed conflict began on February 24, it has been on the ground, providing life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable individuals in Ukraine and outside its borders.

The demand for humanitarian aid has escalated as a result of the ongoing hostilities. According to the United Nations, more than 4.7 million refugees have fled Ukraine and crossed into neighboring countries, and many more have been forced to relocate inside the country.  ADRA collaborates with the Adventist Church and other trusted partners across Europe to welcome refugees, assist, and evacuate thousands of displaced families, elderly residents, and people with special needs.

“We are deeply grateful to Southwestern Adventist University for sponsoring the ADRA International Benefit Concert for Ukraine.  ADRA applauds the generosity of all the singers and musicians for donating their time and talents and putting their passion to purpose to support this unprecedented humanitarian cause,” says ADRA International President Michael Kruger.  “The proceeds from the benefit concert will enable ADRA to continue its mission of providing shelter, food, cash assistance, lifesaving provisions, and long-term services such as education programs, healthcare, and job placement to vulnerable families displaced by the armed conflict. ADRA greatly appreciates SWAU’s generous partnership and is thankful for the community’s support of this worthy cause.”

“Knowledge, Faith, Service is our tagline at Southwestern Adventist University. As an institution, we welcome opportunities to engage in service. One of those opportunities is through this wonderful concert which will benefit ADRA’s humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. We are honored to be part of this altruistic initiative, and proud of our students, faculty, and staff who are sharing their valuable time and talents to benefit others,” states Southwestern Adventist University President, Ana Patterson.

The University Singers, Donne Cantanti, the Southwestern Chamber Orchestra, and The Mizpah Quartet will perform at the concert. The music event is free, but donations will be accepted. SWAU will rebroadcast the concert for online viewers at a future date.  

To learn more about ADRA’s response visit ADRA.org or to make donations to assist with relief efforts in Ukraine and around the world, visit ADRA.org/SWAUforUkraine.

Journalists who wish to interview SWAU representatives about this story may contact marketing@swau.edu or call (301) 332-3880