This is not the blog post I intended to share this week, but in all good conscience, it’s one I had to put together. The images coming out of Ukraine are so heartbreaking that most other things seem shallow by comparison. It’s really not fair to say that because many other things are important, too. But posts about gas prices, NFTs, teenagers, or reading can wait a little longer because I feel like I need to share this information.
In last week’s blog post, I suggested that in times of stress and difficulty you can “look for the helpers.” This week, I wanted to provide for you a list of helpers in Ukraine, benefiting the Ukrainian people. These are all organizations my assistant, Nick, and I have investigated sufficiently to be confident that they are truly helping those in need. Undoubtedly, there are other good organizations, but these are the ones I’m confident enough to share at this point.
If you’d rather help by donating tangible goods instead of money, check with your local houses of worship and schools. For example, my son’s school distributed a very specific list of items such as baby diapers, thermoses, backpacks, and protein bars. The items will be collected for a couple of weeks and then be part of a bigger shipment sent overseas to help the Ukrainian people. I’m using Amazon to deliver to the high school what I want to send, so my son doesn’t have to juggle bulky things on the bus.
Money is tight for just about everyone these days. If your budget allows you to send $5 to an organization working to help people in this crisis, don’t think it’s not enough. You’re still helping – it still matters. If you can’t send money, or tangible goods, don’t be too hard on yourself. If you’re a person of faith, send your prayers or positive energy for an end to this war, and for the safety of those caught up in it. Even if by some miracle this war ends today, the devastation that has already taken place will take years to overcome. Maybe in the future you’ll be able to help if you choose to do so.
One last point I should make … If for your own reasons, you don’t want to help with this situation, that doesn’t make you a bad person. None of us can help with every cause. Not every cause touches everybody’s heart, and that’s perfectly fine. You need to do what’s right for you. Help somebody, somewhere, in a way that feels right to you. Any cause you support is no doubt worthy of it and grateful for your assistance.
Options Available to Assist the People of Ukraine
Airbnb.org. Airbnb’s nonprofit is asking people — especially those residing in European nations near Ukraine — to sign up to provide temporary housing for Ukrainian refugees or donate to their stays. The San Francisco-based company is also pledging to shelter up to 100,000 fleeing Ukraine.
CARE. The international humanitarian group is providing food, water, and other items to families fleeing violence in Ukraine. Contribute here.
Convoy of Hope. The disaster relief group says it’s partnering with a local Polish organization to provide meals to refugees entering Poland, as well as to deliver food, water, and other basics across the region. Donate here.
CORE. The emergency response nonprofit is on the ground in Poland, distributing hygiene kits and thermal blankets, as well as emergency cash assistance to help families resettle. Contribute here.
The following organizations are listed for you according to their current specialties in efforts to help the people of Ukraine. For many of them, you can specify on their website where you want your donation to go.
Medical Services:
Emergency Housing:
American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee
Medical Supplies:
As always, if there’s anything you’d like to share with me about this post or anything else on the From In Here website, please reach out to me at frominhere@gmail.com.
I absolutely LOVED this blog post! Everyday people can make a difference! Five dollars or fifty dollars or a bag of groceries! In a world of chaos and turmoil, giving is one great gift! It can make your day as well as someone else’s. Just donate once to anything you feel compassion or interest in! It will make you feel amazing.
My daughter’s school collected hygiene products.