LEICESTER’S Ukrainian community have launched an appeal for donations, which are needed by those currently living in their war-torn home country.
The community, which has its base, the Leicester Ukrainian Centre in Fosse Road South, have turned the building into a place for people to drop off donations, for those currently living in Ukraine.
They have published a list of essential items required by those currently living in the war-torn country, including medical supplies, toiletries, food and drink.
The hundreds of items, which have already been collected, will be delivered to the Polish/Ukraine border.
“The continued generosity of the people of Leicester has been truly astounding,” said a spokesman for the centre.
“Please help us by sorting all items into their categories and labelling your bags/boxes with the contents.
“Please note, we are not collecting general clothing, toys or footwear at the moment as there is sufficient supply.”
In terms of medial supplies (which must be in date) materials wanted to aid the Ukrainian community, include; first aid kits, wound dressing materials, painkillers, multivitamins and cream for babies (Metanium, Bepanthen, Drapolene).
They are also in need of dry food items including pasta and rice, plus protein bars, canned goods and baby food.
Toileries such as toothbrushes, shower gels and nappies are also required, as well as basic items like warm blankets, sleeping bags, thermal underwear and thick socks.
Items should be dropped off at Leicester Ukrainian Centre, which sits at 2A Fosse Road South on Tuesdays, between 10am-1pm, Fridays, between 7pm and 10pm and Saturdays between 10am and 1pm.
“As Russia continues its assault on Ukraine, many people are fleeing their home country, leaving everything behind,” said a spokesman for the Disasters Emergency Committee.
“Heavy fighting, shelling and air strikes across Ukraine have had devastating consequences for ordinary people.
“Homes have been destroyed, families have been separated and lives have been lost.
“At Ukraine’s borders with Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova, huge numbers of people are arriving only with what they can carry.”
18 million people are projected to be affected by the escalating conflict, and four million are expected to be displaced as the fighting continues, say the committee in their online appeal.
“We are currently unaware of Ukrainian refugees arriving in Leicester at the moment. However, we are watching this closely and will update accordingly,” said a spokesman for the Leicester Ukrainian Centre.
To find out more about making a donation, email: leicester@augb.co.uk or call 0116 2552012.
By Louise Steel
