Dear Supporter, I’m writing to thank you for supporting UNHCR’s work with people displaced by conflict, disaster and persecution. From last month’s devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, to the ongoing refugee crisis in Ukraine – generous donors like you ensure we can send life-saving aid and protection to those in need around the world. I also wanted to update you on UNHCR’s work in Ukraine, where we’ve assisted 1.5 million people. This includes accommodation for families who’ve lost their homes, cash assistance so refugees can buy essentials, and counselling for traumatised children. As fighting in Ukraine intensifies, UNHCR remains on the ground delivering life-saving aid and protection. Here are some of the people we’ve helped so far.
Alexander fled Ukraine with his wife, Natalia, and found safety in Poland. When Alexander became ill, UNHCR staff visited the hospital to register him for the cash assistance program. UNHCR’s mobile registration system means refugees with special circumstances don’t have to attend an appointment in person. Over 530,000 people have registered for cash assistance so they can pay for accommodation, food and other essentials.
Although Magdalena isn’t a refugee, she is on the frontline helping people forced to flee. As a volunteer working at Rseszow, near the Polish border, one of her priorities is protecting refugee women and children from exploitation, including traffickers who may pretend to offer transport or accommodation. UNHCR is training volunteers like Magdalena so they are aware of trafficking risks and the steps they can take to protect refugees. For example, Magdalena is vigilant in checking drivers’ credentials and ensuring refugees don’t travel alone. “If I see a driver I don’t know, I won’t accept them until I have their documents,” she says.
Lyudmyla is a World War II survivor who has lived her whole life in Kharkiv. When the war broke out, her family sought refuge in a bomb shelter beneath a local kindergarten. The shelling was so intense that they had to relocate to an underground train station, before finally deciding to flee west to Uzhhorod in western Ukraine. “We didn’t know where exactly we were going. Volunteers told us about reception centres in Uzhhorod, so we came here. We were very grateful to be given accommodation and hot meals at the reception centre.” Supporter, thank you for helping vulnerable families forced to flee conflict and disaster. Your gifts are saving lives and providing comfort for so many. Yours sincerely,
