More than 4 million people have fled Ukraine since the conflict began. Leaving behind jobs, belongings and loved ones, they now face an uncertain future.
Intense conflict in Ukraine is threatening the lives and livelihoods of civilians across the country, with another 7 million displaced inside the country. Families have been separated. People have been injured. Lives have been lost.
Homes have been destroyed or are unsafe to live in. Critical infrastructure such as health facilities, water supplies and schools have also been damaged or destroyed.
At Ukraine’s borders with Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova, huge numbers of people are arriving with only what they can carry. In many places there are long waits to cross and scant facilities waiting for them on the other side, with temperatures dipping overnight.
There have also been media reports of racism against people of colour who are being refused access to relief, aid and the right to cross the border to safety.
DEC charities are in Ukraine and neighbouring countries meeting the needs of all refugees and displaced people:
- £30 could provide essential hygiene supplies for three people for one month
- £50 could provide blankets for four families
- £100 could provide emergency food for two families for one month
Source: https://www.dec.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal
Throughout March, our food stores, department stores, funeral branches and travel branches have been collecting for the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. The total raised throughout March totalled £2162.38.
Thank you to all of our colleagues, members and customers for donating to this cause. It is part of our Co-op ethos to have a concern for communities and hope that our contribution can help people.
The DEC appeal has now raised £260m since it commenced on 3rd March 2022. If you would still like to contribute please visit: https://www.dec.org.uk/