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Canadian police officers in action: The CULD initiative

In a remarkable display of service above self, four Canadian police officers and a large support network of volunteers have gone above and beyond their call of duty, dedicating their time and expertise to support the people of Ukraine, the National Police of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Military. This initiative, known as the Canadian Ukrainian Logistics Division (CULD), stands as a testament to the power of humanitarian efforts and the impact individuals can make on a global scale.

The CULD team comprises Sgt. Rafal Olaf Schubert (Ontario Provincial Police), PC Larry (Steve) Long (Aylmer Police Service), Sgt. Peter Kwiatkowski (CN Police) and Insp. Scott McCallum (ret.). Their commitment to service has been acknowledged by the Minister of National Defence, and their humanitarian work was recognized in the House of Commons in March 2023. Their diverse backgrounds in military and policing underscore the crucial role of leadership in such endeavors, emphasizing that these efforts would not be possible without the guidance of experienced professionals.

“We began our work as individuals going to the London Ukrainian Centre to offer assistance. Those with military backgrounds started planning to focus efforts and resources on saving lives,” said McCallum. “The idea that humanitarian work is a collective responsibility to uplift the vulnerable and those in need is why CULD was formed.”

CULD’s proactive strategy involved coordinating over 100 metric tons of aid being sent directly into Ukraine. This included partnerships with local community leaders and organizations to establish a long-term logistical network, ensuring essential items like water filtration and critical combat medical supplies reached areas in dire need. The team’s advocacy extended to meetings with the Minister of National Defence and various Members of Parliament to garner support for grassroots initiatives assisting those fighting in Ukraine and the victims of the war with Russia. In May 2022, recognizing the need to strengthen partnerships in Ukraine, the team developed a plan to deploy to the ongoing conflict. Their objectives included delivering critical aid, reviewing logistics networks, building closer ties with partners and finding efficiencies in providing humanitarian and military aid.

Deploying into Ukraine under their own personal time and finances, the team faced high-stress, high-risk and dynamic conditions. Their efforts resulted in forging relationships of trust with Ukrainian non-profit organizations and local government officials. The team personally delivered aid, enhancing the logistical network’s confidence for community and business leaders in Canada, and directly improving relations between the two nations.

In February 2023, during the invasion anniversary, the team returned to Ukraine, bringing over $150,000 of medical aid, including essential items like tourniquets and water filtration capability. The team traveled over 2,500 kilometers within Ukraine, visiting multiple communities in need.

“The idea that humanitarian work is a collective responsibility to uplift the vulnerable and those in need is why CULD was formed.” – Scott McCallum

Upon returning to Canada, the team continued their dedicated work in coordinating the collection and delivery of critical supplies to Ukraine. They played a crucial role in planning and executing projects providing lasting capabilities and support to vital activities in the country. Notably, they co-founded the non-profit organization of the London Ukrainian Humanitarian Action, dedicated to housing and providing aid to over 200 Ukrainian families seeking refuge from the war in Canada.

CULD’s leadership directly influenced positive representation of Canada in Ukraine, integrating and synchronizing their network with Ukrainian non-profit organizations. They continue to make significant impacts, including:

• Shipping over 100,000 kilograms of aid, including water purification devices capable of filtering over 22 million liters of water to victims of the war.
• Providing combat wound care, military gear, and over 5,000 pairs of combat boots to the Ukrainian military.
• Coordinating with organizations such as St. John Ambulance to assist Ukraine.
• Deploying on two missions to Ukraine, to bring aid and consult with military and non-government organizations.

Looking forward, the team plans to deploy again in February 2024—led by Olaf Schubert and McCallum—this will continue their mission to assist Ukrainians and provide humanitarian aid. Urging support for CULD’s humanitarian and donation initiatives, they remain steadfast in their commitment to making a difference in the ongoing conflict.

An initiative is underway, supported by McCallum, and Insp. Monique Rollin (ret) to gather body armour for female police officers and civilian support personnel. There is a significant need for female body armour for women police officers, civilian support personnel and first responders in Ukraine for deployed women and new recruits.

“With the onset of war, female officers have taken on increased responsibilities as many of their male colleagues serve on the front lines. When I learned from Scott of the need for female body armour, I immediately reached out to colleagues and women in law enforcement organizations nationwide. The global bond among police officers, especially among women in policing, inspired an immediate and collective response to support their safety,” said Rollin.

Several organizations, including Saskatchewan Women in Policing have supported these efforts by coming together to gather donations of new, used and expired body armour for the female responders.

As planning efforts to deploy continue, the request for specific aid has gone out once again to the support the next mission. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering commitment that officers demonstrate to their communities and beyond. This initiative is a testament to the selflessness and courage that define the law enforcement profession,” said McCallum. “Ultimately, we are all in the business of saving lives, and that’s what we’ll continue to do, at home and abroad.”

Author note: For more information and to support this initiative, please contact Scott McCallum at smaccalc523@rogers.com.

Monique Rollin is a trainer and consultant for a range of first responder agencies. She is a retired inspector with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service and holds a position on the board of Ontario Women in Law Enforcement.