Huron County newcomers recognized for compassion, resilience and entrepreneurship

Kaushik and Smita Patel at their variety story in Clinton.

Newcomers who have built lives and communities in Huron County are being recognized through the Local Immigration Partnership’s “I Am Huron” campaign, which recognizes immigrants and newcomers making a lasting impact across the region.

Among this year’s six honourees are Luliia Dovzhenko of Goderich and Kaushik and Smita Patel of Clinton.

“This is a big thing for us, it was lots of hard work, we’ve been trying to help the community as much as possible,” said Kaushik.

“Everyone here is like a family to us; the community has been wonderful when welcoming us.”

Kaushik and Smita Patel and their daughter immigrated to Canada in 2000, first settling in Toronto, where they had their son soon after.

Smita found work at a clothing factory, but the long shifts and environment took a toll, leaving her exhausted and emotionally drained. 

Noticing the toll it was taking, Kaushik decided they needed a change. Both coming from farming and business backgrounds, the couple began looking for an opportunity to work for themselves. 

In 2007, their search led them to Clinton, where they purchased a variety store (now known as Charlie’s Variety).  After purchasing the store, the couple faced a few struggles, as Smita adjusted to running the store and battled severe allergies after their move. Despite the challenges, she was determined to persevere and keep learning every step of the way.

The family began to adjust to their new life from India and began to experience the kindness of the Clinton community.

Local business owners greeted them with flowers, while customers offered friendly advice on small-town life reminding them of the importance of saying hello, taking time to listen, and building genuine connections with those around them.

The family did face challenges, encountering negativity both at the store and at school. Yet through those experiences, the Patels found that many in the community were open to listening and understanding, even when opinions differed.

“We try to be as humble as possible, everyone is a human being, and we all make mistakes,” said Patel.

“With the grace of God, if you have a wish and want to do something good, God always helps you out.”

For the past three and a half years, Ukrainian born Goderich resident, as well as wife and mother, Luliia Dovzhenko has been organizing a grassroots effort supporting those affected by the Ukraine-Russia war.

She has opened her home and turned her family’s chicken farm into a refuge for Ukrainian newcomers starting over in Canada.

Beyond offering shelter, she has led community gatherings and organized donation drives, becoming a vital link between her homeland and her new community.

“It was a proud moment when I helped many Ukrainians to escape the danger zone and start their new life,” said Luliia Dovzhenko.

“This is probably the one that I feel good about and helped find a safe place to settle in Huron County and we have a little Ukrainian community here as well. At first, I was helping them as a volunteer now they are my friends.”

A three-month collection effort was initiated by the community, a transport trailer was filled with clothing, medicine, food, and other important supplies. A U-Haul truck was loaded with walking aids for those impacted by the war. Additional boxes of clothing were donated to the Salvation Army in Goderich.

“When war started my friends and family were there,” reflected Dovzhenko.

“When you hear the people that you love are in the danger zone, I would feel useless by not being able to help because I was caring for two kids. That was the main reason why I started with the relief efforts.”

Dovzhenko has helped 19 Ukrainians come to Canada, welcoming them into her own home and guiding them through their first steps in a new country. She’s helped them find employment, enroll their children in school, and adjust to life in Huron County.

Over the past three and a half years, she’s also supported dozens more newcomers, taking on many roles to help people adjust to their new life.

For their contributions and valued impact on their communities Kaushik and Smita Patel as well as Luliia Dovzhenko are being recognized by the Local Immigration Partnership I Am Huron Campaign, giving voice to what it means to bring your life and your story to Huron County.