When the Ukraine crisis began in February, within weeks more than four million people fled to neighbouring countries. Salvation Army ministries across eastern Europe were prepared to meet displaced children and families at their borders with practical support and humanitarian aid.

As the crisis escalated, Canadians rallied together to raise more than $2 million for The Salvation Army to help people deeply impacted in Ukraine and surrounding countries. The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda financially supported the purchase of much-needed relief items.

In the communities of Warsaw, Starachowice, Rzeszów and Malbork, in Poland, Army staff and volunteers stocked food parcels, prepared hygiene kits, distributed vouchers for emergency aid, delivered warm clothing and provided transportation services for more than 2,000 families.

In Klaipėda and Vilnius, Lithuania, donations to The Salvation Army helped to provide more than 300 displaced families with supermarket vouchers, food and kitchen items, hygiene products, bedding and school supplies.

In addition to practical and material support, corps in Ukraine and surrounding countries continue to provide spiritual care, translation services and referrals to temporary accommodation. “In the midst of crisis, Salvation Army first responders are working tirelessly to provide aid to those fleeing the conflict,” says Lt Colonel Brenda Murray, director of international development. “Resiliency is rooted in community and we will continue to support the international Salvation Army as it reaches out in love to all affected individuals.”

Photos: IHQ Communications