Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has created the ‘biggest refugee crisis this century’ the UN has warned, with 2.5million people having fled to neighbouring countries like Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova.
Many of us have rushed to give vital supplies to conflict victims through physical donations at drop off collection points near us. As harrowing footage beams onto our televisions, we all just want to help.
But charities have warned that monetary donations and sponsorship are significantly more helpful to those in need. In times of disaster, physical donations of clothes, blankets, first aid kits and so on, can actually slow volunteers down. Meanwhile, money and sponsorship is quick to receive and flexible in its use as needs change during the ongoing crisis.
How do I sponsor a Ukrainian refugee?
Unfortunately, there are currently no schemes that allow you to directly sponsor a Ukrainian refugee. However, you can donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal here, which has so far raised £100million with the help of British people.
The government has agreed to match charitable donations to the DEC appeal up to £20million and are expected to organise a direct sponsorship method soon. So, watch this space.
For other charitable causes that you can donate to, including Grazia’s partnership with Red Cross, can be found in our how to help article here.
How can I offer to host a Ukrainian refugee?
If you’re interested in providing a home for a Ukrainian refugee, you can sign up with Shelter For Ukraine to offer to host refugees in your spare room here. To take part, just click ‘I can help’ on their website and fill in the form you’re directed to.
AirBnB have also been a force for good in helping Ukrainian refugees during the crisis as they’re donating up to 100,000 homes for Ukrainian refugees who have been forced to leave their homes behind.
To provide additional accommodation for refugees, you can support their campaign by donating money here, you can pay for an Airbnb in Ukraine (without actually staying there) as a way to provide financial assistance for owners during the war, or you can offer your own Airbnb as a safe place to stay by registering for the scheme here.
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