News·4 min read

Want to Help Ukraine? Here's How You Can Send Aid Now

Volunteers helping Ukrainian refugees
Getty Images
February 28, 2022

On Feb. 24, after months of rising tensions, Russia invaded Ukraine. And in a matter of days, the attack has resulted in a major humanitarian crisis. Citizens have volunteered to arm themselves and fight against the No. 2 military in the world. More than 3.7 million people have fled to neighboring countries. And more than 1,000 civilians have died. For many of us living in the US, it's easy to feel helpless in a crisis unfolding thousands of miles away. 

Below, we Skimm'd and verified resources from across the internet that you can use to support the people of Ukraine right now. They include how to give aid from afar for those seeking shelter and fighting on the ground. Plus, actions you can take from here in the US.

Here’s How You Can Support…

Ukrainian Refugees

  • Ukrainian Red Cross: Donations from the org will directly help those affected with things like blood donations, collecting food and hygiene items, and helping injured civilians. Make a one-time or monthly contribution here

  • The UN Refugee Agency: The UNHCR is providing humanitarian assistance on the ground in Ukraine. And working with neighboring countries to keep borders open for refugees. Donations provide them with shelter, food, water, blankets, and medical supplies. Contribute to their efforts here. (Donations are being matched up to $1 million.)

  • Save the Children: True to its name, this org has been helping Ukrainian children since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea (more on that here). But the current situation puts 7.5 million kids in danger. Donations help keep children fed and warm on the ground in Ukraine. Help them out here

  • Vostok-SOS: This volunteer initiative is helping evacuate Ukrainian refugees from the country. You can sign up to donate here

  • Malteser International: The org is helping secure everyday supplies for refugees (think: medicines, cots, blankets, food, and cash). Find out how you can give back here

  • B Strong: Created by “Real Housewives of New York” star Bethenny Frankel, B Strong is taking big steps to help Ukrainians. Her team is planted on the Polish-Ukrainian border offering food, water, hygiene kits, and travel logistics to refugees. Support the initiative here.

Ukrainians on The Ground

  • The LGBTQ+ community: As with most crises, LGBTQ+ people remain at higher risk of being discriminated against and not receiving adequate care. OutRight International is raising money to help the LGBTQ+ in Ukraine reach shelter, safety, and security. Donate here.   

  • Journalists: There are two ways you can support the top English-language outlet in Ukraine, the Kyiv Independent: Become a subscriber, or give a one-time donation through its verified GoFundMe. This can help keep accurate news in circulation and protect the publication from potential cyberattacks. There's also a verified GoFundMe to help Ukraine's media organizations relocate and continue operating in other countries. 

  • The basics: Donations to People in Need and CARE provide Ukrainians with critical aid and recovery supplies. Including food, water, shelter, hygiene kits, mental health support, and cash. 

  • Physical and mental health: The International Medical Corps is offering medical and mental health services for Ukrainians in affected areas. Make a one-time or monthly contribution here

  • Paramedics and doctors: Nonprofit Sunflower of Peace is raising money for tactical backpacks for paramedics and doctors on the front lines. Each backpack can save up to 10 lives. And includes first aid supplies. Donate to their fundraiser on Facebook here

  • Medical supplies: Razom (which means “together” in Ukrainian) is raising money for critical medical supplies (like emergency bandages and IV kits) people can use on the ground. Check out the different ways to donate here.

  • Children: UNICEF is accepting donations to provide kids on the ground with safe water, food, health care, education, and protection. Also, Voices for Children is raising money to provide Ukrainian kids with mental health support.

Ukrainians in the US

  • Join a peace protest: From St. Petersburg to Berlin to DC, thousands of people around the world have turned out in recent days to #StandWithUkraine. Find a local demonstration here. And click here for tips on how to safely protest.

  • Supporting local Ukrainian businesses: Showing up for your local Ukrainian community is another way to show solidarity. Example: New Yorkers expressed their support by gathering at the popular Ukrainian restaurant Veselka in Manhattan. To find businesses in your community, Google search 'Ukrainian-owned businesses near me.’

  • Keep yourself informed: We've got some recs to help you stay in the loop. Sign up for the Daily Skimm, where you'll get the latest news on what’s happening in Ukraine in your inbox every morning. And listen to our news podcast "Skimm This" for more context on the crisis. BBC's "Global News" pod covers the latest developments in Ukraine. This explainer sheds light on Russia and Ukraine’s complicated backstory. This deep dive details what Russian President Vladimir Putin really wants with Ukraine. And this one highlights Russia's disinformation campaigns around the invasion.

theSkimm

The conflict unfolding in Ukraine is Europe's largest attack since World War II. And Ukrainians need support across the board. No matter how close or far away you are, there are still ways you can help those most impacted by the ongoing violence.

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