Several local groups joined forces to raise funds to be donated to the people of Ukraine.

Members of Good Shepherd United Church of Christ of Slatington on Wednesday presented a check in the amount of $5,567 to St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church of Palmerton, which will distribute the funds.

Most of the money came from the “Joyful Noise” fund, which is money collected over several years by the youth of the Good Shepherd UCC. In addition to the youth’s donation, the congregation increased the total.

Dennis Silfies, president of Good Shepherd UCC, said the funds were raised through a combination of “Joyful Noise,” Lenten meals, and a $1,000 match from Richard Nothstein of Palmerton.

“The kids are so amazing,” said Silfies, who also lauded Nothstein for his generous contribution.

Nothstein said he was more than willing to assist.

“It’s a labor of love,” Nothstein said. “So proud of the kids; they’re doing what they should do.”

Chris Olivia, parishioner, St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, expressed his thanks.

“The church and the people of Ukraine really support this donation,” Olivia said. “It will go a long way to help.”

Nothstein explained the importance of the donation.

“It is a wonderful example of people of somewhat different faiths and national backgrounds, trying to heal the wounds of another country’s aggression against the innocent,” he said.