Kildorrery pledge to help Ukrainian refugees
A preliminary meeting was held in St Bartholomew’s Church, Kildorrery on Thursday, March 31st to discuss possible efforts that could be made to help people fleeing the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. The main topic on the agenda was to discuss the possible conversion of two unused schools owned by the Diocese, into temporary accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.
The intention was that if the parish had somewhere concrete to offer the refugees, then they would be in a position to invite and welcome a number of Ukrainian families into the community. However, it became clear that the massive amount of work needed to make the buildings habitable was for the moment largely untenable. It was not ruled out that the buildings could be made available to refugee families as a place to meet and gather should Kildorerry become home to a number of Ukrainian families in the coming months.
The level of frustration at the urgency of the situation was palpable and all present agreed that something had to be done to help in any small way. A plea is now being made to anyone in the surrounding community that may consider offering a vacant house or a room in their house, as a temporary haven. Understandably, this is a huge ask given the uncertainty of the situation, however if the community as a whole gets involved to support and integrate, the task may not seem so daunting to the individual(s).
It was suggested at the meeting that if one or two houses perhaps in need of repair or modernising could be offered then the community could come together to help bring them to an acceptable standard of living with any services or items that they may have to offer. It would be great to give a house that has been vacant for a while a new lease of life and a very special new purpose. If you would like to commit before the next meeting, go to registerofpledges.redcross.ie or ring 01-6424600.
FURTHER MEETING
It was agreed to hold another meeting on April 28th to discuss this or any other ideas people may have, big or small, and to show support to the people of Ukraine. A large turnout is expected and an appeal is being made to our local representatives, people from relevant charities, people who have already become hosts and anyone who can offer ideas or information to attend.
Remember, together we are stronger, together we can help. Note the date of the next Ukranian crisis meeting, April 28th at the Old Store, Kildorrery at 8pm.