Celtic are inviting Ukrainian children to be mascots at this evening's Champions League match with Shakhtar Donetsk, on top of inviting displaced people from the nation to Parkhead.
It's the penultimate Group F match for Ange Postecoglou's side and their final group stage game at home this season in Europe's elite competition. They face the Ukrainian heavyweights amid the ongoing war in their country with Russia that has left thousands without a home, some seeking refuge in Glasgow.
A number of children will be mascots at Celtic Park and will join the home plus Shakhtar Dontesk players as they walk out to a packed arena.. Several hundred tickets to those who are currently settling in Glasgow will also be donated, following on from the £10,000 donated by Celtic to the Scottish Refugee Council to assist their work with Ukrainian refugees in Scotland.
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Through Celtic FC Foundation, the Hoops have announced a specific project, where they will be working with Ukrainian families and children to offer support for mental health, physical wellbeing and social integration.
Tony Hamilton, chief executive of Celtic FC Foundation, said: "Helping displaced people coming to Scotland with food, clothing and shelter is completely in line with our own values.
"We have been pleased to be in a position to do that in connection with the Scottish Refugee Council and also to build on this by delivering our own project at Celtic Park for those Ukrainian people in the city who need further support.
"There are already many such people in our communities and it’s important for us that we maintain a strong level of support where we can.
"Our sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to the work that we’re doing in Scotland and across the world as we seek to make a positive difference to the lives of so many who face such huge challenges."
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