Fighting in Ukraine has seen millions of people forced from their homes and the humanitarian crisis is growing. The Town Council is supporting Northleach for Ukraine, an initiative coordinated by local resident Karolina Urbanska. They are seeking donations of food, nappies, medicines and other vital supplies. Karolina works closely with the Polish Association in Banbury where donations are sorted, prepared for customs, and transported onward to support Ukrainian refugees in Poland and in Ukraine.
There are three drop off points in Northleach:
MoLo Holiday Housekeeping Specialists Ltd
Unit1, The Old Coalyard, West End, Northleach GL54 3HE
Monday – Friday 9AM – 4PM
Westwoods Community Centre
Bassett Road, Northleach GL54 3QJ
Monday – Friday 9AM – 1PM
Church of St Peter & St Paul
Mill End, Northleach GL54 3HL
When the church is open (hours vary)
The list of supplies needed is updated at least weekly, with updates posted on Facebook (search for Northleach). Items must be in good condition and with a good amount of time before expiry please. No clothes or duvets, as these are not required at the moment, and it diverts resources away from their main effort as they have to find somewhere else to store or take them. Thank you for your support.
Karolina is looking for volunteer drivers to help with taking donations to Banbury, preferably someone who is travelling in this direction anyway, perhaps with their work, and who could make the journey on a regular basis. If you can help, please email banburyforukraine@gmail.com.
Other ways you can help
One of the best ways to help is by donating money through trusted charities and aid organisations. Cash can be transferred quickly to areas where it is needed and used to buy local supplies.
The main appeal is being run by Disasters Emergency Committee which shares funding across 15 charities including the British Red Cross, Oxfam, and the International Rescue Committee.
Many other charities have launched appeals to help Ukraine. Sadly, any request for financial assistance is also an opportunity for scammers. Please make sure the charity is genuine before giving away any financial information.
The Government has also launched a scheme to enable Ukraine nationals to come to Britain. Under the scheme people in the UK will be able to nominate an individual or family to stay with them rent-free, or in an unoccupied property, for at least six months. To find out about the scheme and register your interest visit: Homes for Ukraine.
