NEWS ITEM: UKRAINE CRISIS

In February 2022 the Ukraine conflict began. In the months since, more than four million people have fled their homes to seek safety in neighbouring countries and beyond.

The Salvation Army, which has had a presence in Ukraine since 1993, was quick to respond to the emerging humanitarian crisis, and along with its counterparts in Poland, Romania, Moldova, Russia and other European countries, was able to offer practical assistance as soon as the violence escalated.

At border crossings, teams of Salvation Army staff and volunteers supported displaced people with temporary accommodation, hot meals and drinks, hygiene items and emotional support.

Globally The Salvation Army and its supporters have mobilised to raise funds to support relief efforts. At the time of writing more than $14 million has been raised, with supporters within the United Kingdom and Ireland contributing an incredible $4.5 million of this total. Money raised has come from many sources, from businesses, corps/church fundraising events and individual giving. We are immensely thankful for the incredible generosity we have witnessed.

During humanitarian crises such as this, The Salvation Army offers support across three stages:

• Initial response: this is fast, flexible help where we utilise our existing Salvation Army volunteers to distribute immediate help, eg food, water, blankets, shelter.

• Relief: this may include working with reception centres and at transport hubs, and using our own centres to provide short-term accommodation, and helping to provide access to local services.

• Recovery: our longer-term response includes helping displaced people to settle in a new location by providing emotional support and practical help in accessing local government services such as healthcare, education and employment.

In a crisis, all three of these responses could be happening at the same time in different countries or settings, and our staff and volunteers will be working with the local communities to assess the needs of the people they are serving.

Visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ukraine-crisisappeal for the latest information about how The

Salvation Army is responding to the Ukraine crisis. You can also read more about our emergency response work on page 24.