We have all been deeply troubled by the ongoing and escalating war in Ukraine. The humanitarian impact is severe, with one million people fleeing the country and in dire need of emergency aid.
The United Nations estimates that number could grow to as many as 5 million people being displaced. Innocent people have lost their lives and families are being torn apart by war and violence.
As an organisation who has peace as a cornerstone of our global mission. We stand with the people of Ukraine.
In response to the deepening humanitarian crisis, Rotary is working in conjunction with other agencies to support the Ukrainian relief efforts.
For Rotary GB&I, donations can be made to the Rotary Foundation of the United Kingdom’s (RFUK) Disaster Response Fund. This allows for the addition of 25% Gift Aid on eligible donations, meaning every £1 donated becomes £1.25.
In addition, the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) has also established an emergency Ukraine appeal. DEC charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance.
Public donations to the DEC appeal are matched 1-to-1 by the UK Government, up to the value of £20 million.
A taskforce for Rotary GB&I has been created to provide a Rotary co-ordinated approach to the current Ukraine crisis, especially to displaced people both leaving and within the Ukraine and communicate to Rotarians throughout UK and Ireland.
ShelterBox, our project partner in disaster response, is in communication with Rotary members in Eastern Europe. They are also sending a team to the region to understand the type of aid and emergency shelter that is required. More information is available on their website. Bolsover Rotary has recently agreed to donate £590, the cost of a complete Shelterbox, from its Charity account to the appeal.
Rotary also continues to be in contact with the United Nations High Commission on Refugees, and the Rotary Action Group for Refugees, Forced Displacement and Migration is also mobilising its resources to assist.