It is heartbreaking to see the devastation unfolding in Ukraine, and it’s hard to find the words to explain just how we’re feeling right now, especially when seeing scenes of children and babies being forced to leave their homes with their mothers.
It’s understandable why you might feel helpless, and keen to help these families as much as you can, so we’ve rounded up some of the most reliable resources and charities to support in any way you can, who are working hard to save the women and children who are victims of this horrible war. We've also included some practical ways you can help if making a donation isn't an option for you right now.
Donations
If you’re in a position to be able to donate money to fund emergency supplies, there are a number of reputable charities you can donate to:
Save the Children
Global charity Save the Children have their Ukraine Crisis Relief fund which is welcoming donations to specifically help the Ukrainian children impacted by the war. Any donations will go towards the vital resources the children and families need to survive.
Find out more about the important work Save the Children are doing and find out how to donate
UN Women
Many of the Ukrainian women and girls fleeing the war are in desperate need of shelter and humanitarian aid, and will continue to need support following the conflict. You can sign up to make a monthly donation to help these women in need.
Other ways to help
Don’t worry if you’re not in a financial position to be able to donate money - there are a huge number of other ways you can help.
Social media solidarity
We’ve all got a social media account, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. The Sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine, and during these difficult times for the country, it has become a symbol of the strength, bravery and resilience shown by the Ukrainian people throughout the war.
You can share useful resources and places to donate on your social media account using the hashtag #StandWithUkraine alongside the sunflower emoji or a picture of a sunflower.
Talk about the conflict
It may be difficult, but talking to your family and your children about what is happening in Ukraine will not only help them understand what they’re seeing on the cover of newspapers and on the TV, but it may also calm their worries if they’re feeling anxious. It is also useful to read and share news from reliable news outlets such as Stand with Ukraine, Kyiv Independent and Ukrainians in Solidarity, to help loved ones understand more about the conflict from reliable sources.
Protest
There are a number of peace protests taking place all over the world to show solidarity with Ukraine. You can find out more about these protests here.
Book an Airbnb
There are a number of Ukrainian families letting out their homes on Airbnb. Of course, it isn’t possible for us to visit right now, but by paying for a night or two’s accommodation, the money is going directly to families in need, and they will be ever so grateful for your help.
Write to your MP
Use this templateto write a letter to your local MP. This will help push for aid for those in need and put pressure on the Government to help Ukrainian families who desperately need our support.
Donate belongings
You’ll have no doubt seen a number of collections taking place for various items Ukrainian women and children are in need of. There are a number of local donation points you can find online and on social media, and our sister title Grazia has also rounded up some donation points near you. The supplies in demand include:
• First aid kits
• Unopened pain medication such as paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Tents
• Sleeping bags
• Blankets
• Warm clothing
• Hats, gloves, scarves
• Warm coats
• Socks
• Flasks
• Hot water bottles
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Towels
• Shampoo and soap
• Baby wipes
• Sanitary products including pads, tampons, menstrual cups and menstrual underwear
• Nappies
• Warm baby clothes
• Breast milk bottles and pumps
• Baby food (that doesn’t require refrigeration)
• Non-perishable foods
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