The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Rotary springs into action with help
Rotarians are deeply concerned by the escalating loss of life and hardship caused by the war in Ukraine. We’re using our networks and decades of experience to help in the region.
According to the United Nations, more than five million people, most of them women and children, have sought refuge in neighbouring countries and across Europe. About seven million have been displaced within Ukraine.
Rotary and Rotaract clubs around the world have taken action, working to provide essential items such as water, food, shelter, medical equipment, medicine and clothing.
Thanks to the generosity of donors around the world, The Rotary Foundation has received more than $15 million in contributions.
In our district, the “Aid to Ukraine” fund has now collected nearly £75,000. Of this, £58,000 has already been sent to Poland and Romania, supporting Ukrainian refugees.
Local Rotary Clubs have also been offering support to the Peterborough Food Bank. With inflation rates at 9% – the highest in 40 years – and fuel prices the highest for ages, coupled with news that gas and electricity prices will increase again in the autumn, a crisis is taking place.
Statistics show many of those worse off have to choose between eating and heating their homes.
Many vulnerable are elderly, unemployed, single parents, disabled or those struggling to survive on a minimum wage.
Were it not for the hundreds of food banks around the country, millions of people would go hungry.
During 2021, Peterborough Food Bank provided 13,533 meals, helping 6,357 adults and 3,970 children, through 4,511 food parcels delivered to the most vulnerable families in our city.
Over the past three years, Peterborough Ortons Rotary Club has donated almost £7,500 for Peterborough Food Bank.
Manager Juliet Welch presented a certificate of appreciation to Rev Clive Doubleday, president of the club, in recognition of this generous financial donation which has brought much relief to those in food poverty in our city.
Whilst at the food bank, Clive saw the operation in full swing. Members will continue to raise funds and hope to visit the food bank in the near future.