More than 1 million Ukrainians have fled their war-torn country as of this writing, with many more displaced within the country's borders. They are living without access to clean water, electricity, food, and other essential items. Some are seeking refuge from the Russian shelling in makeshift bomb shelters, like train stations.
In the past week, Daily Kos readers and activists have raised more than $850,000 for four charities helping the people of Ukraine. As a member of the Daily Kos Activism team, I wanted to both pass along an update and thank you for your generosity, from some of the organizations that your donations have helped to support:
The humanitarian crisis is getting worse by the hour and the need for resources continues to grow. Please donate what you can to help the humanitarian efforts.
A message from one of their shelter partners in Ukraine:
“Our dogs are very scared. Many do not leave [their dog houses]. [Indoor] dogs do not go outside. We are without rest and breaks at the shelter. It's very difficult for us right now. We are grateful to everyone. We really want peace. We are extremely tired mentally and physically. You are there and we feel it. THANKS! 10,000 times THANK YOU to everyone!”
Both partner shelters in Ukraine confirmed that they have received initial emergency funds. This will cover pet food, veterinary supplies, and wages for daily care staff. The additional funds have enabled additional unmet needs to be identified for both animals and their guardians in Ukraine. Emergency aid has been also issued to partner organizations caring for wildlife in Ukraine, as well as the Pozan Zoo in Poland; the zoo has been assisting in the evacuation and care of wildlife from multiple sanctuaries in Ukraine.
"Thank you and everyone at Daily Kos for featuring Americares in the Ukraine fund you created. There has been an incredible outpouring of support and I’m so grateful to the donors who have visited your page for their amazing generosity and for the impact that their gifts will have for Ukrainians."
Americares has an emergency response team in Poland to support health services for families affected by the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. The team, based in Krakow, has expertise in coordinating large-scale shipments of medicine and relief supplies, and in mobilizing emergency medical teams in crisis situations. Americares is prepared to deliver medicine, medical supplies, emergency funding, and relief items to the region; it’s activated its roster of staff and volunteer medical professionals, in the event they are needed to provide surge support in neighboring countries.
José Andrés’ humanitarian group is on the ground in numerous Ukrainian cities, as well as at border crossings in Poland, Moldova, Romania, and Hungary. They are providing hot meals to refugees who have reached the border, while also delivering meals to shelters and hospitals within the country. WCK received a $50,000 grant from the International Fund for Animal Welfare to help feed pets that cross the border.
WCK recently helped a woman named Shatabdi as she entered Poland from Ukraine. Shatabdi fled Ukraine with her cat, Crimsee, zipped in her coat, and walked over 37 miles with no food or water. She then waited in line for 12 hours before crossing into Poland. WCK was there to greet Shatabdi and Crimsee, with a place to sit and a hot meal.
In Poland, which is preparing to receive as many as 1 million refugees, the IRC is working to scale up support to the government and civil society, and to provide for the basic needs of people fleeing the conflict. The IRC is working with partners in Poland and Ukraine that are quickly mobilizing resources to provide critical support to civilians forced to flee their homes. The IRC is also calling out continued breaches of International Humanitarian Law and discriminatory treatment of individuals displaced by the conflict.
I know it's heartbreaking to watch the senseless destruction and violence of Putin's illegal war unfold on our televisions and across the internet. It's easy to feel helpless from so far away, but when we work together, we make an impact.
Please donate what you can to help those in the greatest need.