How to Help the People of Ukraine

by Better Staff

People around the world are reeling from shock as we watch the full-scale invasion that Vladamir Putin has unleashed on Russia’s neighbor, Ukraine. Since last week, Russia’s troops have infiltrated much of the Eastern European country and have left destruction in their wake, with aerial bombings and ground invasions targeting the country’s major cities such as Karkhiv, Odessa, and Kyiv.

In response, the global community has rallied to support Ukraine, with many countries implementing economic sanctions on Russia and sending military supplies to support the Ukrainian troops. Protests have sprung up around the world, condemning the war.

Despite this, the war continues to get worse, and for Ukraine’s terrified people, access to basic needs are becoming increasingly problematic. It’s easy to feel powerless as we watch this tragic situation unfold, but the one thing we can do is support the organizations working to ensure the people of Ukraine can get food, water, shelter and healthcare during this difficult time. Below is a list of places to donate.

World Central Kitchen

Help support emergency food relief efforts by World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef José Andres.

Unicef

On their website, UNICEF Ukraine states that they support the “health, nutrition, HIV prevention, education, safe drinking water, sanitation and protection for children and families caught in the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We call on all sides to recommit to the ceasefire.” Donate directly on UNICEF’s Ukraine or Unicef USA’s websites.

Come Back Alive

Offering supplies to Ukraine’s soldiers, Come Back Alive is a Kyiv-based charity that was established in 2014. Donations will be used to provide auxiliary equipment, specialized software, drones, personal body protection, and training. Instructions on how to donate from abroad can be found on Come Back Alive’s website.

Refugee One

A 2014 Chicago Philanthropy Award winner, Refugee One welcomes hundreds of refugees through the U.S. State Departments Refugee Admissions Program who are escaping violence, persecution and war in their countries, and helps them rebuild their lives. Donate online.

International Committee of the Red Cross & American Red Cross

The International Committee of the Red Cross has been on the ground for years, delivering urgent assistance to at-risk families in need. The International Committee is active in Ukraine, protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence. Donate directly to their cause on the ICRC website.

In line with the American Red Cross’ work in supporting military families, they are sending 30 trained staff members to Europe to support the emergency communication needs of US military members. They will also distribute comfort kits, containing hygiene items and other necessities to service members and U.S. State Department Staff. Support their critical work on their website.

If you are interested in directly donating to the Ukrainian Red Cross, you can donate via their website (which as of press time, is experiencing technical issues) or on the iRaiser platform.

Abundance International

This organization cares for orphans in Ukraine, providing basic needs, disabilities care, education and basic needs. Donate via their PayPal.

Project Dynamo

Project Dynamo, which is civilian and donor funded, helps Americans and allies escape dangerous situations abroad. You can submit a request for evacuation assistance on their website, and also donate to their mission online.

Direct Relief

Working in the U.S. and internationally to equip doctors and nurses with life-saving medical resources, Direct Relief has supplied Ukrainian healthcare providers with more than $27 million in medical aid. Monetary donations can be made on their website.

Save the Children

 
 
 
 
 
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Save the Children states that they are “gravely concerned for children in Ukraine, Afghanistan and around the world who might be caught in the middle of armed conflict, forced to flee their homes and exposed to injury, hunger and sub-zero temperatures.” They are on the ground delivering essential aid; $50 can provide food for three children for a month, and $150 can provide warm blankets for up to 30 children. Donate directly on Save the Children’s website.

United Help Ukraine

A non-profit charitable organization, United Help Ukraine is distributing food and medical supplies to those in need. You can donate directly via PayPal.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders has a base in Ukraine that provides treatments for a range of regional diseases and medical problems. Donate on their website.

The Kyiv Independent

Support Ukraine’s English-language media resource, which is providing critical news for residents through their GoFundMe or Patreon.

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