Items collected across Stirling to aid those fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine are being transported across Europe.
In Bridge of Allan, a massive donation drive was held at the parish church there. The collection has now been paused as two van loads have been dispatched to the Polish border and an additional 3.5 tonne lorry has gone through the Salvation Army in Alva.
Reverend Dan Harper, the minister at Bridge of Allan Parish Church, said: “We still have somewhere in the region of five tonnes of goods, which will be stored until the logistical issues faced by the overwhelming generosity of not just Bridge of Allan, and Scotland but the rest of Europe, are worked through both at this end, but more importantly on the ground where the Ukrainian refugees have been displaced to. The rest of what has been collected will then be transported through contacts in the Ukrainian and Polish churches, and the Salvation Army.”
The Rev added: “The response to our request to support and show solidarity with the people of Ukraine has been remarkable. The generosity of people in Bridge of Allan, and the wider Stirling area, with giving their time, their resources and their donations has meant at points I have found myself standing in the midst of it all with my heart filling to the point it overflows as tears running down my face.
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“This response co-ordinated jointly by us at Bridge of Allan Parish Church, Bridge of Allan Community Council, and our local councillors, as well as a committed band of volunteers, is a credit to the people who make up all these organisations and our community. This is a beautiful part of the world full of good people who know that their combined small actions can make the world a better place.
“As an old teacher of mine once told me ‘mony a mickle maks a muckle’ and this effort has made that evidently clear.”
He continued: “Not only do volunteers deserve thanks, but also all the local businesses that have supported us over the last few days.”
In Callander, a collection point was also established at the MNV offices, Stirling Road, with items to be sent to Slovenia. The collection was arranged by Mary and Richard Johnson.
The collection point saw two tonnes of donations and raised over £3000 for transport.
