Ukraine children leave Callander
Community bids farewell
More than 50 Ukrainian orphans who were given sanctuary in Callander have now moved on after three weeks at the base.
Last month, we told how an Edinburgh-based charity was attempting to bring the 52 children – as well as nine “house mothers” – to safety in Scotland as the Russian invasion of the country ensued.
Following a delay over paperwork, the children arrived in Scotland and were housed at the safe haven, near Loch Venachar.
Now, three weeks after they arrived the children have been moved to a more permanent accommodation in the capital.
The youngsters were brought to Scotland by the charity Dnipro Kids.
Accommodation was organised by Dnipro Kids board member, Robert Brown, from Stirling, who worked alongside Stirling Council to welcome the children, aged between four and 17.
During their stay, the children and the adults were supported with their health and wellbeing and took part in a range of activities including swimming, cycling, bowling, soft play, crafts and fishing.
Along with visiting local beauty spots, the group also enjoyed a boat trip on Loch Katrine and visits to Blair Drummond Safari Park and Stirling Castle.
Traditional Scottish entertainment was provided by Doune Pipe Band and local folk musicians who delivered country dancing lessons.
Steven Carr, chairman of Dnipro Kids, said: “We’re very grateful to Stirling Council for the hard work and dedication they’ve shown to the group these past few weeks. We couldn’t have asked for more.
“We’d also like to pay tribute to the local community for the many kindnesses shown, and for the warmth of the welcome given.”
Stirling Council Chief Executive Carol Beattie, who addressed the group at a farewell event, said: “Given the terrible trauma experienced by the children and adults in fleeing Ukraine, we hope the last three weeks in Callander have been an opportunity for them to have some space, sanctuary and respite.
“We were delighted to welcome the group and there was an incredible collective effort to quickly put the arrangements in place to ensure they had everything they needed. I would also like to pay a heartfelt tribute our dedicated staff and our public sector partners who rose to the challenge magnificently to deliver such highquality support and care to the children and young people.
“I also need like to thank the people of Callander and our other communities for their warm welcome to the children and adults and the incredible offers of support. The generosity and kindness from residents, organisations and businesses has really been overwhelming and a reminder of the fantastic community spirit across Stirling.
“Finally, on behalf of everyone at Stirling Council, I would like to wish the Ukrainian children and adults peace, love and happiness as they move on to Edinburgh.
“Stirling will continue to support people displaced by the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.”
Dnipro Kids was launched in September 2005 when Hibernian travelled to Dnipropetrovsk for a UEFA Cup tie. Hibs supporters organised a charitable collection for some local orphans.