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Mothers' Union stands with Ukraine
The people of Ukraine live in fear every day. Every moment brings with it the possibility of a deadly attack that could destroy everything they value and hold dear. Despite this, many have shown immense resilience and courage in the face of this crisis. Mothers’ Union stands firmly with the people of Ukraine; both those who are fleeing and remaining.
Homes For Ukraine: The UK Government launched the 'Homes For Ukraine' scheme on 14th March 2022, for those willing to sponsor the refugees from Ukraine. Sponsors are requested to host Ukrainian refugees for at least 6 months - a period during which they will be supported by their local authorities. You can register your interest here, read about FAQs and subscribe to stay updated on the scheme here.
United in Prayer for Ukraine: Christians across the UK and Ireland will be joining in prayer for Ukraine on Sunday April 3. Read more on the website of Church of England here. They have also released a toolkit of resources for parishes seeking to help refugees and evacuees from Ukraine. You can find it here.
We understand and acknowledge the trauma that war unleashes upon families. It tears the fabric of society apart, and impacts even those who witness it from afar. The recent bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol has further exacerbated this suffering. More than 2 million Ukrainian people have fled their homes since the start of the war, and now face the possibility of homelessness.
Many Mothers’ Unions across Britain and Ireland have existing refugee support projects and are confident that members will step up and continue this support for those fleeing Ukraine.
Experience has taught us that humanitarian aid in such situations needs to be coordinated and delivered by experts in the field. With no active links in the Ukraine, it is not possible for Mothers’ Union to accept donations directly. We appreciate that in addition to prayer and action in welcoming and supporting refugees as they arrive in the UK, many members will want to provide financial support to those in immediate crisis. If you do wish to donate you can do so through:
- Disaster Emergency Committee’s Appeal: Donations to this appeal go to their member charities and their local partners responding in Ukraine and in neighboring countries.
In addition, essential supplies such as clothes, first aid and sanitary products are being collected by many charities and community groups across Britain and Ireland. We encourage people to search locally for these as there is not a national network that has been set up.
You may be aware that the government has announced a sponsorship scheme that will be launched soon to support those fleeing and arriving in the UK. Information is not yet available, but we will share updates on this as they are released. It is also possible for you to follow updates on this scheme by using the following link: Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine.
Our members worldwide continue to fervently pray for the safety of people in Ukraine and for peace to prevail. You can join us in our daily mid-day prayer on our Facebook page here. On 1st March 2022, we organised an extended time for prayer for Ukraine, which can be found here.
A series of prayers for Ukraine can also be found here.
The Spring 2022 edition of Connected carried an article on MU Norwich's sustained efforts to support refugees and make Norwich a 'city of sanctuary'. Read more here.