The first Ukrainian refugees to benefit from the generosity of Wishaw have moved into their new home in Poland.
Earlier this month we told how a Wishaw businessman had teamed up with volunteers from the town to provide vital aid to Ukrainian refugees.
Tom McAvoy, from ADP Aluminium, decided to help out after watching the harrowing television footage following Russia’s invasion.
And having sponsored Ukrainian refugees to put a roof over their heads, Tom and the team were delighted to see a family - mum Maryia, dad Ivan and kids Victoria and Wadim - settling into their new home.
Tom told Lanarkshire Live : “Victoria is a third year student at the National University of Lviv Polytechnic studying Chemical Engineering and she hopes to continue her studies at one of the universities in Poland. Wadim attended a fourth grade primary school in Sambir.
“The family fled Ukraine on the morning of February 25 and Maryia said they left as they stood.
“The children travelled calmly, they were brave, they slept a lot but they endured much stress.
“Last week the family moved into their new home. This has been made possible by business associates of ADP whom we are so thankful.
“Maryia’s words when she entered the apartment was that she felt so embarrassed – she had absolutely no need.”
The team are also supporting another refugee called Victoria.
The 18-year-old was born in Kyiv and as the war broke out her father sent her to Poland.
She was with the refugees however accommodation has since been found next door.
The next shipment of supplies to the war-torn country is scheduled in the next 10 to 14 days.
Tom added: “Adam Korycinski from Cash for Clothes in Wishaw has joined the team and has kindly agreed to fund the transportation of the next load which will be in the region of four tonnes.
“We have now received a shipment from one of our suppliers of medical supplies, head torches, hand torches, batteries and emergency blankets.
“We are told that when the last shipment arrived at the Ukraine border, the van was emptied and all the medical supplies were taken by military straight to Kyiv as they were in very short supply.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for their generosity and support.
“Our appeal will continue as long as we can keep supporting these unfortunate families.
Our man on the ground in Poland, Jakub, has advised that his company are in a position to employ 20 to 30 refugees which is great news.”
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