Ukraine crisis: how you can help from the UK by donating cash and supplies

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05.03.2022 - 12:45

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theguardian.com:

As the conflict in Ukraine unfolds on your television screen, you may be wondering what you can do to help those caught up in it. Here’s a guide to how you can make a difference.

Earlier this week, the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) launched a Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal to raise funds for food, water, medicine, protection and trauma care for people fleeing the war. At times of crisis, the DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities (including the British Red Cross, Cafod, Care International and Save the Children UK) to raise funds quickly and efficiently.

This is one of the best appeals to give to because every pound donated by the UK public to the DEC will be matched by the government, up to the value of £20m. You can donate at a Post Office, as well as directly.

Other charities have also launched appeals and continue to need public support. Here’s a roundup of what some of the other big aid charities are doing.

The UN Refugee Agency estimates that about 660,000 refugees have fled Ukraine to neighbouring countries. In Poland, it is providing new arrivals with information and legal services through a local legal partner.

In Romania, it is providing advice on asylum procedures and is offering legal advice and psychological support through partners.

At the border with Moldova, it is distributing essential relief items, including blankets, sleeping bags and hygiene items, and it is also working at the Slovakian and Hungarian borders.

Where possible, it is liaising with community leaders in Ukraine to assess their humanitarian needs and also delivering essential aid to internally displaced people. You can donate online.

The British Red Cross has its own appeal as well as being part of DEC. Alongside supporting people in