THE RAVAGES of war are the most far reaching of any crisis that can impact human life, writes David Harrop. Not just the physical destruction of attack, but the human cost in terms of life, loss of family, friends, hunger and hardship of all the basic necessities of life.
The Polish Centre in Leamington has been at the heart of providing essential relief to the victims of the Ukrainian War since the Russian invasion in February this year. From the beginning of the war they have sent over 168 tons of relief including medical aid, toiletries, blankets, toys for the children and food.
The sight of a Ukrainian boy Ignat, who’s eyes were damaged by shrapnel, was restored by a £400 operation paid for by donations. Even more recently two ambulances were purchased and driven over to replace the 53 year-old ambulances currently serving war torn hospitals in Ukraine.
One of the less obvious casualties of war is the impact on children’s lives – not just loss of family or friends, but the loss of freedom to meet with friends and have a break from the daily horrors of war life.
There are many negative results of constant stress and tension. Children of Ukraine live in a constant state of uncertainty from the very first day of war. Being able to spend some quality time with friends and simply play, as all children should, is something they very much need.
In response to this need The Polish Centre has donated £30,00 for summer camps in Shepitivka and Lubar run by The Sisters of St Joseph. They also sent swimming pools, trampolines and sports equipment. These camps supported the wellbeing of children and their families, overwhelmed by the situation in their home country. Over 130 children had the opportunity to meet friends, and relax together away from the rigours of the war.
The Ukrainian children wrote a letter in appreciation:
“Dear friends from Leamington Spa: we are grateful for all your bighearted help and financial support. We are now spending couple of days on a local summer camp for children – playing and praying together. It is so good to have few days of fun, distraction from our new reality – the war.’’
There were three events organised for different age groups, ranging from a weekly camp for children aged five to 12 where children played together and joined a worldwide prayer for peace in Ukraine.
A weekly retreat for 12 to14 years for youth to reflect, calm their minds, but also have some fun – playing water games, dancing and doing sport.
The group of 15 plus youths gathered for a three day retreat focusing around discussions, conferences and common prayers. Many of them engaged into organizing events and overlooking a safe playtime of the youngest members of the local community.
A huge thank you goes out to LKQ Euro Car Parts for their generosity in providing the £3,000 funding for these camps and also to the wider community for their donations and much-needed support for the lives of those suffering in war torn Ukraine.
Visit www.facebook.com/PolishcentreLeamington for updates and there is also an online fundraising page here
