Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24 more than 1.7 million refugees have left Ukraine. They are in dire need of assistance. Rotary International is asking for our help to support efforts in countries bordering Ukraine through donations to the Rotary Disaster Relief Fund. The United Nations estimates that number of refugees could grow to as many as 5 million people displaced. Rotary clubs in Europe and around the world have stepped up their relief work, some working on the ground to help displaced families. A comprehensive list of projects in countries bordering Ukraine can be found at: https://bit.ly/3hL5uwL. Now more than ever the people of Ukraine need our support.
Rotary is made up of people of action, especially in difficult times. In response to the deepening refugee crisis, The Rotary Foundation Trustees have decided to prioritize contributions made to the Disaster Response Fund until 30 April 2022 to support disaster response grants for districts affected by these events. These expedited disaster response grants can be used to supply water, food, medicine, shelter, and clothing.
All donations made online at Disaster Response Fund, including the use of available district designated funds (DDF), need to be received by April 30, 2022. This will be the main avenue for Rotary Foundation support, but Rotary and Rotaract clubs are also encouraged to create their own responses to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
In addition to the support provided through the Disaster Response Fund, Bartek Klimza, one of our former youth exchange students from Poland, has recommended the following organization that is providing aid to Ukrainian refugees. Here is the link:
Polish Humanitarian Action - https://www.pah.org.pl/en/?enable_cookies=all
Thank you for all that you do to promote peace.
In Rotary,
Pam Whitenack
