North East fundraiser sends essentials to Ukrainian hospitals

Essential supplies are being donated to hospitals in Ukraine thanks to the fundraising efforts of The Salvation Army across the North East. 

Sunderland Monkwearmouth Salvation Army, which is led by Majors David and Elizabeth McCaw-Aldworth, has hosted regular fundraising lunches and coffee mornings, organised by Ukrainian refugees who have been supported since they came to the UK in 2022 when war broke out. 

Recent donations, including dressing materials, pain relief medication, soap, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste and shower gels, have been packed and sent to hospitals in Ukraine to support those who are injured and vulnerable people who are unable to afford the basics.

Olena Myronova, who came to the UK in 2022 and now works as a Refugee Support Co-ordinator and Translator, based at Monkwearmouth Salvation Army, said: “The Ukrainian Community would like to express our heartfelt thanks to The Salvation Army church communities and their congregations across the North East for their continued generosity, compassion and support.

“Thanks to your donations, we were able to send much needed hygiene products and essential supplies to hospitals in Ukraine to support wounded patients and vulnerable people who are unable to afford basic necessities during this difficult time. 

“Last Sunday, during our weekly Ukrainian community gathering, both children and adults came together to pack the first shipment of humanitarian aid. It was much more than a practical task – it became a meaningful and emotional experience. 

“Children carefully packed items and added personal notes to the boxes, such as ‘Packed by Makar, aged nine, from Kyiv’. These simple messages create a powerful connection between people in the UK and those who will receive the aid in Ukraine, reminding them that they are not forgotten.

“We would like to extend special thanks to The Salvation Army Monkwearmouth and their congregations for their ongoing support. We are also deeply grateful for the significant contribution from The Salvation Army Gateshead and look forward to receiving another large donation from The Salvation Army Austin House, Sunderland.

“Every donation, every box packed, and every act of kindness brings hope to people facing the hardships of war. Your support is making a real difference, and we hope it will inspire other Salvation Army churches and congregations to join this vital mission.

"Thank you for caring. Thank you for helping those in need. Together, we are bringing hope where it is needed most.”

Many members of the Ukrainian community now volunteer and work at Monkwearmouth Salvation Army in Roker Avenue, which continues to offer wider support to Ukrainians who have resettled in the North East, including helping people find work via the Employment Plus service, offering practical assistance such as food and clothing, providing a listening ear and spiritual support and activities for children including the opportunity to go on summer camps with The Salvation Army.