Hull supports Ukraine with humanitarian aid effort
Communities in Hull are coming together to collect and deliver humanitarian aid for Ukraine under the Hull 4 Ukraine collective.
The effort is is being led by community and voluntary organisations who shone during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hull City Council has now agreed to partner Hull 4 Ukraine and Hull 4 Heroes to support a coordinated aid response to the crisis.
Hull 4 Ukraine was set-up within a few days by Magda Moses and others who wanted to take immediate action.
They already have almost 30 volunteers who sort the donations, which are growing daily, before being transported to Ukraine and surrounding countries.
Magda said: “We felt that we needed to unite and support Ukrainian families in this conflict. Many volunteers came together to organise help for Ukraine.
“I’m overwhelmed by Hull’s warm response and the people who have come forward to volunteer are doing an incredible job. Everyone just wants to feel like they are doing something.
“We all stood in silence when the first lorry was loaded, amazed at the effort from local people.”
Any person, business or other organisation wanting to donate items to Hull 4 Ukraine can drop them off at Living Hope Christian Centre in Linnaeus Street, west Hull, HU3 2QA.
Most wanted items include:
Food with a long expiry date;
Medication including painkillers, bandages, plasters, and first-aid kits;
Supplies for soldiers, including flasks, warm men’s jackets, thermal underwear, socks, boots, rope, sleeping bags, backpacks and toiletries;
Warm coats and boots;
Blankets, duvets, pillows, and camping mattresses;
Toiletries for women and children;
Babies items including nappies, milk, wipes, toiletries and bottles;
Batteries, power banks, torches, matches, candles and heaters.
‘WE CONDEMN’S RUSSIA’S ACTIONS’: Councillor Daren Hale, leader of Hull City Council
Hull 4 Heroes has joined the partnership to support the logistical side of the response and has also agreed to host an online fund that residents can donate to, that will support the purchase of medical supplies and transportation.
Hull 4 Heroes founder Paul Matson said: “The response from the local community has already been incredible, and we know how generous and supportive this city can be.
“We are proud to be supporting this response and will do all we can to support Hull 4 Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.”
Council leader Daren Hale said: “Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people and we totally condemn the actions of the Russian Government. During the current humanitarian crisis we are committed to working with Hull 4 Ukraine to assist the fantastic work they are doing.
“In horrific situations like this, where people are desperate to support in any way they can, it is vital that local organisations come together to coordinate efforts and ensure they have the best possible impact.
“Hull City Council and our local MPs are actively supporting Hull 4 Ukraine and will continue to support the city’s humanitarian aid effort.”
Enquiries can be made to Hull 4 Ukraine via: Enquiries@hull4heroes.org.uk
A vigil for Ukraine is being held at Hull Minster tonight from 7pm