Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) has supported vital services on the Island through the distribution of £5,250 from the Ukrainian Support Fund, in partnership with UK Community Foundations and the Freemasons’ charity.
The Ukrainian Support Fund launched last year, following the invasion of Ukraine. Around the UK it has helped hundreds of charities and community organisations that are providing support for refugees arriving from Ukraine, supporting the direct delivery of services for individuals’ and families’ social integration in the UK.
Two IW organisations
Two community organisations on the Island received funding to support relief projects: Community Action Isle of Wight received £3,250 to provide free bus passes to Ukrainians arriving to the Island so that they can access essential services and help reduce social isolation.
MAD-Aid received £2,000 to provide a pop-up shop for essential items and a Saturday club to help Ukrainian people meet Islanders.
Dunford: It’s far from finished
MAD-Aid Founder and CEO Victoria Dunford said,
“I never want to wake up the way I did last year, to the echoes of bombs – and I was far away, in another country. It’s far from finished. Thousands of family lives broken and damaged. Children left without parents, and parents who lost their children.
“Thanks to the support of the Isle of Wight community and a grant from HIWCF, we are managing to offer ongoing support to Ukrainian mothers, children and teenagers living on the Island. We are offering them space and help to meet every Saturday and enjoy celebrations such as Mothers’ Day.”
Scott: Its impact will last for many years to come
Jacqui Scott, HIWCF CEO, said,
“Although a year has passed since the invasion of Ukraine, its impact will last for many years to come.
“The work being done by community organisations on the Island and throughout Hampshire is helping to ensure these displaced individuals and families escaping a terrifying conflict and who are often traumatised get the help they need from within the caring communities of the Isle of Wight and Hampshire.”
Hutchinson: Proud that the assistance provided
Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, the Freemasons’ charity, said,
“I am delighted that we have been able to offer significant aid to many Ukrainians who have arrived in this country.
“They have abandoned everything in a country grappling with the consequences of a catastrophic conflict, and I am proud that the assistance provided by the Freemasons is making such a difference.”
News shared by Milly on behalf of HIWCF. Ed
Image: tina hartung under CC BY 2.0
