Charity partnership, the Disasters Emergency Committee DEC) has launched a fundraising appeal, which is being matched funded by the UK government, to support victims of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
It aims to raise funds for aid to support more than 750,000 who have fled Ukraine following Russia’s invasion and bombardment of cities. It will also look to support displaced Ukrainians due to the fighting.
The UN estimates that four million people, around a tenth of the population, could flee. Many are arriving in neighbouring countries with only what they can carry.
Funding is needed for food water, medical supplies as well as protection and trauma care.
The UK government has pledged to match up to £20m raised through the appeal organised by the DEC, which brings together 15 aid charities, including the British Red Cross and Save the Children to coordinate appeals when crisis strikes overseas.
The Disasters Emergency Committee has launched an urgent appeal to help people fleeing conflict in Ukraine. #UkraineAppeal
— DEC (@decappeal) March 3, 2022
The UK Government will match pound-for-pound up to £20 million donated by the public to this appeal. #UKAidMatch
Donate now: https://t.co/JRCP8NYvdB pic.twitter.com/APlGs0TJuc
“I could never have envisaged launching a humanitarian appeal in Europe in 2022. But tragically, that’s exactly where we find ourselves.,” said DEC chief executive Saleh Saeed.
“Our members are working tirelessly with local partners to reach people in Ukraine swiftly as the brutal conflict turns lives upside down. Families, including many children, have been forced to leave everything they know behind to find safety and desperately need food, water and shelter.
“The DEC exists to mobilise the British public’s generosity and goodwill at times of crisis overseas, and this is one of those moments.”
World Vision International president and chief executive Andrew Morley has returned this week from the borders of Ukraine with Romanian and Moldova to see relief operations firsthand.
“We support children in countless crises across the world, but I have never seen a more heart-breaking situation,” said Morley.
“All the children I met were crossing the border in tears, with pain and fear in their eyes. They were lost and scared. They need the basics – simple, practical help. Our staff have been present in this area for decades and there on the ground to deliver it – but we need financial support to do this.”
Boris Johnson added: “Time and time again the British people have proved responsive and generous when confronted with a global emergency, and so I have no doubt that millions will support this vital appeal.
“That is also why the UK Government will match every pound donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee by the British public, ensuring vital supplies and support reaches those left homeless, displaced and distraught by this war.”
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