As well as being Ukraine’s Independence Day, September 24 marks six months since Russia began its invasion of the Eastern European country.
In response to the attacks, which started on February 24, donations poured in from around the world, quickly reaching hundreds of millions of pounds to help families, individuals and organisations impacted by the conflict.
However, with this impact ongoing, charities are concerned about the continuing humanitarian needs as winter approaches.
“The conflict in Ukraine has affected millions of people, but sadly six months on people face further hardship,” says Mike Adamson, chief executive of the British Red Cross. “For many, damaged accommodation will no longer be habitable as the bitter weather sets in. On top of this, much of the temporary accommodation provided, such as schools, will soon become unavailable.”
Refugees who’ve resettled in the UK as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme also need support.
Adamson continues: “In the UK, the cost-of-living crisis and predicted rocketing fuel prices this winter pose a huge risk. Making sure there isn’t a cliff edge, where families who have arrived from Ukraine could face homelessness, should be a priority. ”
If you’re able to offer financial support, however big or small, here are some of the ways you can donate to appeals benefiting Ukraine right now…
British Red Cross
The British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal (redcross.org.uk/ukraine) raises money to provide food, water, first aid, medicines, warm clothes and shelter in war-torn areas, and has already helped five million people.
The organisation is also supporting Ukrainians as they arrive in the UK, providing psychosocial support and practical help, such as SIM cards and emergency cash aid.
DEC
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) is working on the ground in Ukraine to help the estimated 18 million people affected by the conflict.
The charity’s Ukraine Appeal (donation.dec.org.uk/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal) provides much-needed supplies, including food, water and healthcare to refugees and displaced families.
Ukraine Charity
Focusing on procuring medicines and medical equipment, Ukraine Charity’s Just Giving appeal (justgiving.com/fundraising/lyubomyr-kuziv) is aiming to raise £350,000.
Regular updates are provided on the page to inform supporters of the latest deliveries, including first aid kits, tourniquets and ultrasound machines.
AUGB
Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) launched the #HelpUkraine Emergency Appeal (gofundme.com/f/helpukraine) to raise funds for food, medical supplies and psychological support to those in need.
Earlier this month, 45 tons worth of goods, including food, medicine, hygiene supplies, generators and solar lamps were delivered to the front line east of Kharkiv.
Beam
UK charity Beam organises crowdfunding for individuals who have been through difficulties and need help to get their lives back on track.
One of the organisation’s current campaigns is for Hanna (beam.org/campaigns/hanna), who was forced to flee the Ukraine with her two children when her city was attacked, leaving behind her husband. She is seeking financial support to build their life in the UK.
