LIFELINE CHICAGO BRINGS GIFTS FROM CANADA TO CHILDREN IN NEED ACROSS SERBIA

Oct 7

Belgrade - October 7, 2026 Lifeline Humanitarian Organization of Chicago is proud to announce the arrival of an extraordinary humanitarian donation of countless gifts from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Canada, received by the HRH Crown Princess Katherine Foundation in Serbia. Through the efforts of Lifeline Chicago and the generosity of those who made this initiative possible, thousands of gifts will soon find their way into the hands of children and families who need them most.

This special shipment is separate from Lifeline Chicago’s annual Christmas container, which our dedicated volunteers are currently completing and preparing to send from Chicago in the coming days. Our annual Christmas initiative remains a cherished tradition, delivering gifts and much-needed supplies to children and institutions throughout Serbia. The Marineland donation represents an additional humanitarian effort, expanding our ability to touch even more lives.

One Person’s Initiative, Thousands of Reasons to Smile

Behind this remarkable donation is Michael Gruyich, whose strong connection to Serbia and heartfelt commitment to helping children inspired him to approach Marineland with an idea: give its remaining merchandise a meaningful new purpose.

What began as one person’s thoughtful initiative grew into an extraordinary act of generosity. With the support and coordination of Lifeline Chicago, more than 10,000 items were secured for children and families in Serbia.

The shipment includes stuffed animals, children’s clothing, backpacks, school supplies, hats, socks, towels, cups and other children’s accessories. Items that might otherwise have remained unused will now become treasured gifts and practical necessities for those facing difficult circumstances.

Reaching Children and Families Who Need It Most

The HRH Crown Princess Katherine Foundation will carefully sort and distribute these donations according to the specific needs of social welfare institutions and vulnerable communities throughout Serbia.

Special attention will be given to children living in orphanages and residential care facilities, children with disabilities, families experiencing financial hardship, and women and children receiving assistance through shelters.

Some of the larger stuffed animals will be reserved for Christmas and Easter celebrations, creating special moments of joy for children who deserve to experience the excitement and happiness of receiving a gift.

A Message of Gratitude from HRH Crown Princess Katherine

HRH Crown Princess Katherine, whose patronage has guided Lifeline’s humanitarian mission for more than three decades, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to everyone who helped make this generous donation possible:

“There is something deeply beautiful in the simple act of giving. When people come together with goodwill and understand the joy that a gift can bring to a child, even an item that might otherwise have been left unused can become something very special.

We are deeply grateful to Michael Gruyich, to Marineland, and to the Lifeline Chicago Board members who helped make this shipment possible. These gifts will bring smiles, comfort and happiness to children who deserve to know that people care about them.”

The Power of Generosity Without Borders

For more than three decades, Lifeline Humanitarian Organization has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children, families and vulnerable individuals throughout Serbia and Republika Srpska. Through the generosity of donors, volunteers and humanitarian partners, Lifeline continues to provide essential assistance to children’s homes, hospitals, shelters and other institutions in need.

The Marineland donation is a beautiful reminder that meaningful change often begins with a single idea and a willingness to act. Thanks to Michael Gruyich, Marineland, Lifeline Chicago and the HRH Crown Princess Katherine Foundation, more than 10,000 items have been given a new purpose—and countless opportunities to bring happiness to those who need it.

Because sometimes, the greatest gift is simply knowing that someone, somewhere, cares.

Lifeline Chicago extends its sincere gratitude to Michael Gruyich, Marineland, and everyone who helped make this extraordinary humanitarian donation possible.