The Estonian Relief Committee in Canada (ERC) will be celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking a remarkable journey of post-war refugees that led to the creation of this thriving community organization. The Let’s Celebrate fundraiser on March 7, 2026, will host Estonian-Canadians and friends at the Latvian Canadian Cultural Centre in Toronto as it not only celebrates its own milestone, but also pays tribute to the successes of Estonian community members.

Established by Estonian refugees who fled Soviet-occupied Estonia after World War II, the ERC was formed in 1950 to help those newcomers rebuild their lives in Canada. In the late 1940s, more than a thousand Estonians arrived in Canada aboard small “Viking boats” – they were among Canada’s first “boat people,” and their story is featured at Pier 21, the Canadian Museum of Immigration. Thanks to public support and the courage of these immigrants, almost all were allowed to stay and build a new community here. Over the decades, that community flourished: today an estimated 23,000 Canadians proudly claim Estonian heritage, and the ERC continues to support them through cultural programs, seniors’ care, and other community initiatives.

“This milestone is a testament to the resilience of our people and the generosity of Canada,” said Allan Meiusi, Chair of the Estonian Relief Committee in Canada. “Seventy-five years ago, our parents and grandparents arrived with hope and little else. They created an organization that helped preserve our culture and give back to the country that welcomed us. We invite all Canadians to celebrate with us – to share in our story of freedom, friendship, and inclusion in Canadian society.” Allan Meiusi added: “Funds raised from this celebration will support improvements, equipment, and program needs that enhance the wellbeing, engagement, and quality of life of older individuals, both at Ehatare and in the wider community.”  

The 75th Anniversary Celebration on March 7, 2026 will showcase Canadian-Estonian culture, past and present. Attendees will enjoy fine cuisine by Canadian Estonian chef Andres Allas (restaurant Salt in Estonia) and modern music by Estonian rising star Haldi. A digital collage of community member photos will remind participants of what has been achieved and what we are celebrating, so that younger generations can better understand the 1940s “Great Refugee Flight” era and the community’s roots. Organizers will also honor community elders and volunteers who have kept Estonian traditions alive.

In the lead-up to the event, the Ehatare Foundation, on behalf of the ERC has partnered with VEMU and will launch a “Memories Campaign: My first…” to collect photos and personal anecdotes from Estonian families across Canada. Community members are invited to submit old photographs, documents, or brief stories illustrating their family’s ‘firsts’ while resettling in Canada. Selected materials will be displayed during the celebration, creating a collective memory showcase contributed by the community itself. “We want everyone to feel that this celebration is their story,” explained Event Director Kristi Doughty. “By sharing our memories, we honor those who came before us and inspire the next generation to carry our culture forward.”

About the Estonian Relief Committee in Canada (ERC): The ERC is a non-profit charitable organization founded in 1950 to support Estonian refugees arriving in Canada. Over 75 years, it has helped establish key community institutions and provided relief, cultural, and educational support for Estonians in Canada. Notably, the ERC owns and operates the Ehatare Retirement Residence and Nursing Home in Toronto, and prior to that, was instrumental in the building of Eesti Kodu, a home housing co-op complex. The ERC has supported community organizations in Canada and Estonia, and its mission continues to be to aid Estonians and their organizations.

The Ehatare Foundation is a secondary charity that organizes and supports older adult programs that run outside of Ehatare.

For more information regarding the above, please contact director@ehatarefoundation.ca.

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