REFUGEE RESPONSE

At the start of the conflict, refugees quickly fled Ukraine for neighbouring countries. The initial focus was on meeting basic needs, including shelter, food and water in a range of settings, such as transit camps, temporary shelters and in rented or host accommodation. As the situation in Ukraine developed, many refugees returned home or moved to other countries.

Interventions in Poland, Romania, Moldova and Hungary accounted for almost 40% of total DEC expenditure during the first six months of the response. As in Ukraine, cash proved to be the most effective way of getting help to people quickly, while the provision of food and protection services were also prioritised.

Working on the Ukraine–Poland border in the first few weeks of the conflict, we saw thousands of scared families crossing, mothers, grandmothers, single women, children. Their relief on reaching a safe haven was palpable and the welcome and solidarity they received brought relief in itself

Mike Noyes, Action Aid

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

Phase 1 – first 6 months

161,000 PEOPLE received cash assistance

263,000 PEOPLE benefitted from food assistance including hot meals, food packages, groceries

62,200 PEOPLE benefitted from hygiene kits containing soap, cleaning materials, toilet paper

114,800 PEOPLE received legal assistance and support such as advice on immigration and legal help-desks

34,900 PEOPLE provided with mental health or psychosocial support

127,900 PEOPLE at transit centres provided with basic services and support such as water, food, information, toilets, hygiene