How to help the people of Ukraine right now
Our hearts are with the people of Ukraine and everyone affected by Russia's military invasion of Ukraine. Tens of thousands of individuals, children and families have been left displaced, left without homes, seeking shelter, as well as having to flee to neighbouring countries for safety. As the world comes together to offer support, we have put together some ways you can give your support in this time of crisis.
CHARITIES PROVIDING ESSENTIALS:
1. Nova UkraineDistributes medical supplies, food, and donations to internally displaced Ukrainians as well as offers supporting families who have lost soldiers to war.
3. Razom
The Razom Emergency Response is helping delivery essential goods and medical supplies to provide relief for soldiers and doctors on the frontlines.
ORGANISATIONS HELPING SOLDIERS & PROVIDING MEDICAL SUPPORT:
A Kyiv-based organisation helping provide Ukrainian forces with training, equipment, food and software.
2. Army SOS
Helping soldiers of Ukraine by sourcing necessary ammunition, shields, intercommunication and reconnaissance facilities, uniforms and food supply and passes them right to the hands of their "warriors".
Founded by Katya Malakhova, this fundraiser is to help provide first aid tactical medical backpacks for paramedics and doctors. Each backpack is intended to "save up to 10 lives" from soldiers, children, civilians and volunteers in Ukraine.
OTHER ORGANISATIONS TO SUPPORT:
Provides psychological and psychosocial support to Ukrainian children affected by the conflict. This charity has been running since 2015 and has helped thousands of children through art therapy, mobile psychologists and individualised support.
Trusted sources and information is vital during times like this. The Kyiv Independent is Ukraine’s English-language media outlet with journalists that provide people with timely and verifiable information.
OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT:
1. Donate essentials or volunteer
As thousands have had to abandon their homes and flee the country, there is a huge need for household items, clothing, shoes, children's essentials, toiletries, blankets, sleeping bags, pillows thermals and more. Our best suggestion would be to find out if there are any local charities or Polish Community drop-off centres near you that are accepting these donations to send them to the borders of Ukraine. These centres may also be in need of volunteers to help sort out the huge volume of donations, thus it would be a big help if you are able to give some of your time to volunteer instead!
2. Using your voice
In addition to monetary and physical donations, it's important to share accurate, fact-based information about the Russian invasion of Ukraine to raise awareness about the situation. Please do your research carefully and use your voice wisely and correctly.
3. Write a letter to your local MP and sign petitions
For those living in the UK, you can write a letter to your local MP and sign petitions to make your support known. Public pressure may ensure UK’s condemnation of Russia’s attack remains clear and as severe as the government has said. (www.you.co.uk)
Despite these numerous ways to show your support, it's important to keep educating ourselves about the situation and provide an ongoing support to the people who have been affected by the crisis in any ways we can. Every little contribution will definitely help make a difference!