Words by Smiley Team
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has left many people wondering how they can help those suffering or provide support for Ukrainian refugees.
There are hundreds of charities all over the world providing on-the-ground support – from humanitarian aid for civilians to medical support on the front lines. Most of the large international aid organisations – such as the UN Refugee Agency, and UNICEF – are currently working in Ukraine and the neighbouring countries where people are fleeing.
There are also many local and grassroots organisations dedicated to providing support to the people of Ukraine. So, while many of us might feel helpless, here are charities you can support right now.
United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR)
The UNHCR has set up an emergency response to crisis in Ukraine and is working with governments in neighbouring countries. By donating, “your support can help ensure that displaced Ukrainians are sheltered and safe,” they say. Donate here.
International Committee of the Red Cross
The British Red Cross is working with the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to respond to the emerging humanitarian needs. “The Red Cross has supported people affected by this conflict for years and this will not stop now,” they say. Your donation could help someone affected get shelter, warm clothes, first aid, food and water. Donate here.
Unicef
UNICEF has launched an emergency appeal, requesting £46.9m to provide access to basic services including water and sanitation, immunisation and health care, schooling and learning, psychosocial support, and emergency cash assistance. The charity is repairing schools damaged by the bombings and providing an emergency response to children affected by the conflict. Donate here.
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has launched an appeal to help support displaced families with critical aid. “We are working quickly to mobilise resources that will provide life-saving support to civilians forced to flee their homes,” the charity said. “Our teams are already on the ground in Poland, and working with our local partners in both Poland and Ukraine.” Donate here.
United Help Ukraine
Based in the US, United Help Ukraine is a nonprofit founded in 2014, after the annexation of Crimea. The charity is raising money to send first aid kits and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Donate here.
In Ukraine, there are charities working locally to provide medical aid, help paramedics, as well as support for children.
United Help Ukraine is helping to provide medical aid and humanitarian relief to Ukrainians. The four focuses of the charity are medical supplies; aid; wounded warriors; and raising awareness. You can donate on its website.
Vostok SOS has partnered with Liberico, a charity in Germany, to provide evacuation support to Ukrainians attempting to flee their homes. Donate here.
Nova Ukraine is a nonprofit providing people with everything from baby food and hygiene products to clothes and household supplies. Donate on their website.
Voices of Children is a local charity supporting children affected by the war in eastern Ukraine. They provide psychological and psychosocial support to children to help them overcome the consequences of armed conflict and develop. Help children by donating here.
If you know of any other local charities, community groups, or nonprofits working hard to support the people of Ukraine, we'd love to hear from you. Email [email protected].
