Ukraine Aid

The war in Ukraine is showing an amazing resistance and recovery of territory by the Ukrainians, but with a reaction we see in greatly increased retaliatory strikes across the whole of Ukraine, including upon civilian targets, with an associated cost of lives and trauma within the regular and volunteer military, and civilian population. The Ukrainian spirit of courage, resilience and tenacity however, is widely reported and certainly evident in all my direct observations in continuing trips in to Ukraine.

Further to my first article in September, the car and supplies were successfully delivered to the displaced persons hostel, the air raid sirens starting as soon as we commenced unloading. All is very gratefully received and much gratitude expressed for me to pass on to all kind contributors – so thanks again to all! Deliveries were also made successfully within the same trip, of medical supplies to a hospital.

I have just returned from two further Ukraine aid trips; the first facilitated by the loan of a van by John Grose Ipswich who also very generously paid all diesel costs of the return journey to the border! Thank you Ian Twinley and colleagues. Again, the supplies for the Shelter were very generously provided by Hadleigh Morrisons and staff, thank you Lisa and colleagues, and all individuals who responded to the call in my first article. A large surprise donation from a church in Eastbourne enabled me to buy new thermals for soldiers to keep warm, and some special medication for response to chemical attack – I and the Ukrainian recipients are so very grateful to you all. There were again deliveries of medical supplies made at the same time. This trip had to be prematurely concluded by our early withdrawal from Ukraine due to the enhanced and widespread bombing at the time – including the town in which the shelter is – leaving it for periods without water and electricity. The second trip required me to drive an ambulance from Wales to Amsterdam, for it to be included in a convoy of 6 ambulances bought and taken to Ukraine by Ukrainians.

My volunteer commitment to Ukraine is ongoing and I intend further supplies trips to the shelter - and definitely in time for Christmas.

There is such great need across the world, in the UK and often on our own doorsteps, that the generosity of all seems much stretched. I do not ask anyone to divert resources from any other need they are committed to, but if you are currently in a position to do so, please do not hesitate to contact me regarding the donation of any supplies or financial assistance. We take care to provide receipt and photographic proof of any purchase and delivery, to all main/large donators.

Items remaining in much demand for displaced people and orphans continue to be as previously related; non-perishable foodstuffs, baby food/bottles and nappies, toiletries for all ages, personal hygiene and general washing/cleaning products, medicines and general health care items, NEW children’s clothing, clean and good condition blankets/duvets and extra warm clothing for adults. Other good quality miscellaneous items can prove to be of great benefit/comfort to somebody, so feel free to enquire. I remain ever on the lookout for 2nd hand vehicles, free or low priced, pickups and SUVs preferred, which we use for delivery and then donate to volunteer military battalions, who have great need of these.

I am also looking for a free and secure location in which I can store donated supplies, rather than my garage. Thanks again to all who have supported or wished these initiatives well. Ukrainians repeatedly express how encouraging it is to experience that the “ordinary” person cares and stands with them in this. I look forward to hearing from any supporter and can be contacted on 07500 531901. David Jacobs.