We are very glad to have sent a grant to provide aid for internally displaced people in Ukraine.  We believe the money will be well spent.  The latest truck load is on its way now (mid-February), with more to follow. 

 Volunteer Mary says “The temperature has been minus 10 and men, women and children are cold, colder than we can imagine. We have sent candle wax out as a means of keeping warm believe it or not.  Some families live in cold basements with no heating.  Toilet facilities are dire.  The £350 grant will bring some measure of comfort in these freezing conditions by sending out hand warmers, feet warmers, thermal socks for men women and children etc.  These are items that will make a huge difference and that’s what we are about.”

This voluntary group has been set up to deliver humanitarian aid to people who are victims through no fault of their own.  Families with no home, children without parents in orphanages, hospitals needing medical furniture such as beds, cots and medical supplies.  

Mary adds “if there are generous people out there who would like to donate goods, they can be sent directly to Andrews Motor Co. 273 Leeds Road, Huddersfield HD1 6NS between 9am -5pm Monday to Saturday.  Alternatively, I regularly go over to pack goods and I am happy to collect.  My mobile number is 07443438522.”

Founder, Tim Marsden, has worked tirelessly to ensure that the aid is delivered where it is needed, not stockpiled or, even worse, sold on. Tim says “Thank you to The Rotary Club of Hebden Bridge for helping us” and asks “ Does anyone have an old 4x4 vehicle that they would like to donate for medical evacuations?  If so, please contact me”.

For more information or for more details about how to support the volunteers, please see their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HuddersfieldToUkraineHumanitarianAid or join their Facebook group.

To see more photos of the Huddersfield to Ukraine volunteers (and to learn more about the Rotary Club of Hebden Bridge) please follow us on Facebook at Hebden Rotary and on Instagram at @rotaryhebdenbridge