Northeast Wisconsin Business Has Provided Over $800,000 for Ukraine

Thursday, December 29th, 2022 -- 2:00 PM

(By Joe Schulz, Wisconsin Public Radio) A business in Northeast Wisconsin is turning its attention to providing a source of light for Ukrainians after Russian attacks left many without power.

According to Joe Schulz with Wisconsin Public Radio, Door County Candle Co. has raised over $800,000 to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, with a goal to raise $1 million. Company owner Christiana Trapani is a second generation Ukrainian-American.

Both her maternal and paternal grandparents came to America from Ukraine. Trapani said she’ll never forget the day Russia invaded Ukraine, describing the war as "heartbreaking." "I have deep roots, being Ukrainian, and we still have family in Ukraine," Trapani said.

"This hit home for many people, but, for me particularly, it hit home." Trapani added that her family members back in Ukraine are "terrified" right now. "They're staying home because they're too afraid to leave," she said. "They're coping as best as they can by just trying to survive."

Trapani’s ties to Ukraine motivated her to use the business she's been running since June 2021 to do something to help. Earlier this year, Door County Candle Co. developed a candle in the colors of the country's flag. Trapani said the community’s response has been overwhelming.

"The first day we started this we had like 10 volunteers come in the door and ask us, 'What can we do? We want to help,'" she said. "And since then, we have had so many people who have come and just want to help and want to do their part. It really has been amazing."

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