Shropshire group calls for donations to support Ukraine
Donations can be dropped off at The Red House in Albrighton on September 26, between 10am and 2pm
A Shrewsbury-based volunteer group is appealing for donations of essential items to help people affected by the war in Ukraine.
Mila Prysyazhna, who has lived in Shrewsbury for several years, set up Shropshire Supports Ukraine following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The volunteer-led organisation sends humanitarian aid directly to people and organisations in Ukraine, with collections from Shrewsbury and across Shropshire transported to the country every two to three months.
Volunteers collect, sort, pack and label donations before they are loaded onto lorries travelling to Ukraine.
Items sent include food, toiletries, hygiene products, bedding, wheelchairs and mobility equipment, medical and rehabilitation supplies and school materials.
Mila works directly with volunteers and organisations in Ukraine to identify the items most urgently needed.
The group supports vulnerable families, children, orphanages, rehabilitation centres, displaced people, disabled and elderly people, clinics and hospitals, as well as Ukrainian defenders undergoing rehabilitation, including people returning from Russian captivity.
Fundraising and community events are also held, featuring Ukrainian food and entertainment alongside presentations about the group's work and the ongoing humanitarian situation.
The organisation recently welcomed the Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, and Vice Lord-Lieutenant Jenny Wynn.
Mila said their involvement helped raise awareness of the continuing humanitarian need in Ukraine and recognised the contribution of volunteers across the county.
She added that their support strengthened the connection between people in Shropshire and Ukrainian communities affected by the war.
The group is now appealing for donations, including new underwear, socks, vests, thermal underwear, T-shirts, joggers and fleeces for adults, as well as toiletries.
For children aged six to 16, the group is seeking new underwear, toothbrushes and toothpaste, stationery, writing and colouring books, and boxed board and table games.
It is also appealing for generators and portable power stations in working condition, new single duvets and pillows, bedding sets, waterproof mattress covers, hot water bottles and electric heated mattress covers and blankets.
Long-life food, including rice, pasta, tinned food, cooking oil, cereals, tea and coffee, is also needed.
All food must be unopened, in date and have a good remaining shelf life. Clothing and underwear for the rehabilitation centre must be new.
Donations can be taken to The Red House, High Street, Albrighton, WV7 3LU, on September 26 between 10am and 2pm.
The Lord-Lieutenant said: “We are calling on local businesses, organisations, schools, churches, councils, and individuals to support this campaign.
“No matter how large or small the items you donate, they will be very gratefully received.”
For further information, email [email protected].