A statement from Matthew Carter, Group CEO of Depaul International, on the current situation in Ukraine:
“I would like to start by saying a massive thank you to everyone who has donated to our Ukraine appeal. Your generosity enables us to continue our work inside Ukraine, helping displaced people with emergency shelter, food and medical supplies.
It is obviously a very complex and ever-changing environment. Our staff are quickly adapting and finding new ways to help the most vulnerable. For instance, there is a shortage of essential items in Ukraine, so we have started trucking in aid from neighbouring Slovakia. Depaul Slovakia is coordinating the transportation of aid from the Slovakian border, and Depaul Ukraine will ensure it gets to where it is most needed inside the country. The first truck is about to leave the Slovakian border, stocked with food medicine, first-aid equipment, sleeping bags and blankets. We hope it will be the first of many trucks.
In related news, we are now working in partnership with St John Ambulance – we are very grateful for their support. Their first shipment of first-aid supplies will arrive in Slovakia on Monday. The delivery will include blast bandages and tourniquets, for people suffering from severe bleeding. Our amazing Ukrainian team will make sure supplies get to where they are needed.
Finally, we will be benefitting from the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal, which launched yesterday. We will be working in partnership with CAFOD to make sure aid gets to those in need.
With the help of supporters and partners, Depaul Ukraine is able to continue its life-saving work. We are in constant contact with our colleagues in Ukraine, who are safe and well, and working hard to continue to support the most marginalised. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Ukraine, our Ukrainian colleagues, and we hope for a peaceful solution.
For media enquiries, please contact us over email or call Depaul Media number 07939 950882.
Find out more about Depaul Ukraine’s work in Ukraine and how best to support those facing desperate conditions here.
