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[et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text"]I know I'm not the only one worrying nonstop about citizens in Ukraine the past few days. Despite claims to the contrary, President Putin invaded Ukraine at multiple points on the Ukraine border this past week and seems to be targeting Ukrainian troops defending their national sovereignty as well as ordinary civilians in their homes, schools, and businesses.
From the visuals of cars lined up for miles, to people sheltering in subway stations, to the video we shared of a makeshift NICU in a bomb shelter (oof, our hearts), all the news feels so heavy. And it's easy to feel helpless from this side of the planet. Even as we see the bravery of its citizens, led by President Zelensky, whose selfie video (shown at top) demonstrates the resolve they share.
But while I can't solve a dispute happening across the ocean, I am finding some small comfort in gathering and broadcasting these small, actionable steps you and I can take to support Ukrainians right now. I'm so grateful for all the journalists covering this conflict and for the aid workers pitching in to support Ukrainians as they flea, fight, and rebuild.
Here's how to support them.
Related: Our kids are sharing WWIII memes right now. Here's how to talk to them about it.
The Motherland Monument in Kyiv: Photo by Andrii Leonov via Unsplash
Donate to an aid organization
Donbas SOS helps to support Ukrainians in the Russian-bordering Eastern region of Ukraine who have been affected by the years-long Russian occupation there. Donbas SOS provides free legal advice and assistance for Ukrainians who have been affected by the escalating conflict in their region. Razom for Ukraine focuses on raising money for "extreme and unforeseen" situations like the one we're seeing right now. They're currently raising money for medical supplies to treat Ukrainians injured by the Russian invasion. Hospitaller is made up of volunteer paramedics and doctors who care for soldiers on the frontlines. They're currently fundraising for all sorts of medical supplies, as well as fuel for vehicles and other necessities. You find instructions for donating to them, like routing and account numbers or Venmo and Paypal handles, on their recent Facebook post. Voices of Children provides psychological support to children who've been affected by the ongoing Russian presence in Eastern Ukraine. As violence spread throughout Ukraine, I imagine their services will be even more in demand. World Central Kitchen has been providing nutritious, fresh food for people in crisis since 2010 in so many areas including Puerto Rico, Beirut, and California. And they're already on the Ukraine-Poland border serving meals to displaced Ukrainians; they'll continue to scale up their efforts to feed refugees as they arrive. International Rescue Committee works to provide immediate crisis support to refugees and then helps them find stability, whether that means rebuilding their home or resettling somewhere else. They're currently raising money for the acute Ukrainian refugee situation.Related: 7 parent bloggers share their own immigrant and refugee stories, and they’re wonderful.
Together Rising, the not-for-profit established by Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, has already committed $250,000 ($150,000 of which is on the ground now) for the most urgent needs of the Ukrainian people, like medical supplies, food, and cash. Save the Children's Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund is getting immediate aid to families who are in need of food, water, shelter, hygiene kits, and money. Doctors Without Borders is a well-known non-profit that already has a presence in Ukraine. They provide much needed medical care, work with local healthcare professionals, and help people access their medications when in crisis. International Committee of the Red Cross has been working in Ukraine for the past eight years and will remain active as long as help is needed. Along with providing humanitarian needs, they are also working to support hospitals, repair damaged homes and water stations, and reconnect families separated by the conflict. Choose Love supports projects who are providing vital aid and services in the country including emergency medical care, food, shelter, legal support, mental health support, and more. International Medical Corps' Ukraine team is responding by expanding access to medical and mental health services, including COVID-19 awareness and prevention services for people who have been displaced.Support the Ukrainian Army
The National Bank of Ukraine has opened up an account for anyone to donate directly to the Ukrainian military as they defend the country from Russia. Considering this army is now made up of any able-bodied person between the ages of 18-60, it is understandable that they could use outside support. This account accepts transfers from bank accounts in many different currencies, including, of course, USD. Donations to this account will help the Ukrainian Armed Forces stay equipped in the battle against their much larger aggressor, Russia. If you feel uncomfortable giving money that may go toward buying weapons -- even if they're used in self-defense -- I hear you. Instead consider donating to Come Back Alive, an organization that provides non-lethal supplies to the Ukrainian armed forces, like equipment, training, and support for veterans. Army SOS also provides supplies, like bulletproof vests, food, and ammunition to Ukrainian soldiers.
Photo by Daria Volkova on Unsplash
