Two Belfast friends are planning to leave their homes in two weeks to take Northern Ireland's message of compassion directly to Ukraine refugees in need of temporary homes.
Anne Marie Marnell and Stephen Ward feel compelled to take direct action after growing frustrated, with what they believe is a confusing approach by the UK government to help those in need.
Family support worker, Anne Marie, said: "We just want to help people navigate the difficult 'Homes for Ukraine' programme launched by the UK government earlier this week. We want people to feel safe and we want to offer our help here where we are famous for our hospitality.
Read more: Details on applying for Homes for Ukraine scheme in NI as portal opens
"We want to give the Northern Irish welcome we're renowned for."
Anne Marie is travelling to Poland with nurse Stephen at the end of March, to help match refugees with families in homes in Northern Ireland.
She has housed people "of every creed, race, and religion" over the past 17 years, and said she is happy to be able to do something practical to help those fleeing conflict.
As well as helping those crossing the border into Poland, she will also be housing a refugee at her home in Belfast.
Anne Marie, who is already working with refugees in her day job, also recognises that not everyone will have the ability to house refugees.
However, she would encourage people to reach out to their friends and families who are hosting, to offer encouragement, support, and possibly practical help with integrating refugees into communities.
Recognising there's a well-established community sector in Northern Ireland, Anne Marie said it's important that "communities come together" to help those moving here to flee the conflict in Ukraine.
"There's a massive community effort needed," she said.
"People hoping to become host families would be well supported by the community sector in Northern Ireland, to show that we can be supportive and welcoming."
To help pay for flights and other expenses the refugee families may need, Anne Marie and Stephen have set up a fundraiser. You can view this and donate by clicking here.
Read more: Ukrainian woman in Belfast tells how terrified mum called as her city was bombed
Read more: Ukrainian woman on reluctantly fleeing Kyiv for Belfast after Russian invasion
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