Amazing generosity for Ukraine appeal

HERE in Somerset our village agents are helping to greet our Ukrainian refugees, checking their welfare and helping them to settle into their new environment.

They have found that many of them have little more than the clothes they are wearing; thus it was that, in June, a cry went out from the village agent locality manager for south Somerset to the Somerset Federation of WIs – could WI members help with underwear (bras, panties, nightclothes) and socks for women and children?

An urgent appeal was sent to all WIs in the county (over 100, with almost 3,500 members).

The response was immediate and remarkable.

Within a week we were able to make our first substantial delivery. Members unable to get to the shops or online sent in monetary donations; coffee mornings, afternoon teas, and raffles were organised and collections made from family and friends.

Donations are continuing to pour in and collection and delivery points have been set up throughout the county.

Such has been the overwhelming response that we have been able to extend our remit to include such items as nappies, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoos and shower gels.

Those involved in organising this appeal have at times been moved to tears at the sheer kindness and generosity shown by everyone.

A huge thank you is, therefore, due to all members and also to those WI husbands and WI fathers, who have supported members by using their vans, Land Rovers and cars to help with collection and delivery, all the more so when you consider the high cost of transport.

It is perhaps even more amazing when you think that Christmas shoe boxes are beginning to loom on the horizon! Again a huge ‘Thank You’ to everyone.

Alice Beak (Mrs) Vice President Lydeard St Lawrence WI