Donated supplies reach those most in need
The first batch of vital supplies donated by generous residents in Callander have arrived in Ukraine.
Earlier this month, we told how more than two tonnes of essential items to be sent to desperate Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion.
A donation point was set up within the MNV offices, in Stirling Road, by Mary and Richard Johnson.
Among the items collected were – medical supplies; overthe-counter medications for adults and children; first-aid kits; sanitary products for women; hygiene products for adults and children; sleeping bags, yoga mats, pillows; batteries; torches and candles; non-perishable food items; baby/toddler food items ranging from formula to purees; snack food; paper/plastic plates, cups and cutlery; bottles of water; kettles; and children’s clothing.
Around 2.3 tonnes of items were being prepared to be transported across Europe.
This week Mr Johnson confirmed that the first batch of supplies have now reached the war-torn country.
He said: “We hired a courier from Slovakia who took the first load to the town of Spissica Nova Ves, in eastern Slovakia, and they transported the goods over the border to the town of Tyachiv in Ukraine.
“We are now waiting for the courier to return to collect a second load and we are now planning another collection. We have been in touch with the town in Slovakia who have given us a list of priority items to send, these will be sent in a third load.
“The people of Callander have been very generous and have given enough money to fund the transport of the first two loads.”
The grateful children in Tyachiv posed for a photo with some of the items that arrived at the city on the UkraineRomania border. In the snap, they are holding a soft toy and a greeting note explaining that the aid was from the community in Callander.
During the initial donation drive, Mr Johnson said: “People were very generous, giving food, clothes, blankets, toiletries and soft toys. We also had donations from Aberfoyle, Balquhidder, Killin and Tillicoultry.
“To pay for the transport (of the items) we put out an appeal and within 48 hours had raised over £3000.”