“Staying warm is a matter of life and death in Ukraine as temperatures drop below freezing around the country,” Australia for UNHCR CEO, Trudi Mitchell, said.
“While the world has been focused on other crises, the people of Ukraine continue to suffer. They are facing winter in homes with holes in the walls and shattered windows, no heating, and no income. Many are only surviving with the help of the UN Refugee Agency and other humanitarian organisations.”
The United Nations Refugee Agency is providing thermal blankets and winter clothing and helping to repair and insulate damaged homes. UNHCR is also distributing cash for basic items like food.
“UNHCR is hoping to reach an estimated 900,000 people with crucial support this winter, and we need all the support we can get,” said Ms Mitchell.
It’s been almost two years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Nearly 3.7 million people are internally displaced in Ukraine, while more than 6.2 million refugees from the country have been recorded globally.
“The world’s focus has shifted to other emergencies around the globe in recent months, but we must not forget the people of Ukraine,” Ms Mitchell said.
“There is no end to the war in sight and people still desperately need our help. I encourage Australians to support Ukrainians during the coldest and darkest months of the year.”
If you are covering this story, please encourage people to donate via: https://www.unrefugees.org.au/emergency-response/ukraine-emergency/
Contact details:
Alex Fisher
Senior Media and Communications Manager
0419 183 568
