The Diocese in Europe and USPG have launched a joint emergency appeal to support humanitarian work both in Ukraine and with refugees fleeing into neighbouring countries. 

Funds raised by the appeal will support Christian charities and churches and agencies carrying out humanitarian work in both in Ukraine and organisations responding to the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in neighbouring countries.

Our on the ground partners we are working with are geared up to provide food, medicine, shelter, care for children and people internally displaced in Ukraine. With refugees they are supplying care at the border and beyond, including attention to those from Africa and Asia who as well as Ukrainians who are fleeing the war.  The appeal is for urgent help now but the work will go on for many months.

The Church of England’s Bishop in Europe, the Rt Rev’d Robert Innes says, ‘War is horrible. It injures, destroys and kills in an often indiscriminate and uncontrollable way. And now, we face war in Europe. The people of our little church, Christ Church Kyiv, find themselves in the midst of this crisis. They are typical of so many others.  Some have fled the city whilst others are still there; praying for their safety and for peace as they shelter as best they can. These people are our brothers and sisters. Those still in Ukraine and those who have fled need our help.’

USPG’s General Secretary, the Rev’d Duncan Dormor, adds, ‘Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of Ukraine at this profoundly difficult time. At USPG we are deeply aware of the work of the churches mobilising to support those who are suffering

So, we have launched this appeal in partnership with USPG to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and support church responses to the current crisis.’ 

The Most Rev’d Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York says, ‘Prayer changes our hearts and it changes our resolve. At the start of this season of Lent, many of us will be thinking about the things we can do to follow Jesus more closely.  One of the things we can do is to play our part in receiving and supporting refugees who are living with the horror of this conflict in Ukraine and its consequences.  Please support USPG’s call for generous humanitarian aid and support. ’

There will soon be more than a million refugees in Europe who have fled the war in Ukraine. They have left everything behind to escape conflict. 

Christian charities and churches need help now as they support these people in all aspects of their lives.

To donate to the Ukraine emergency appeal, visit www.uspg.org.uk/ukraine