Emergency aid for people in Ukraine

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, triggering the largest humanitarian crisis in Europe since World War II. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes, and thousands have been killed or injured.

The breach of the Kakhovka Dam in southern Ukraine in early June 2023 further aggravated the already precarious humanitarian situation. Local Caritas organizations and partners were immediately on-site to support people in need in various ways:

• Evacuation: Many people have lost their homes in the flood, while others have fled to escape the flood. Caritas and local aid workers evacuated people by boat and arranged transport to safe areas throughout the country. Numerous emergency shelters have been provided, where those affected were provided with the essentials, such as blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags.
• Life support: Life support is a key part of the support for those affected. Initial needs assessments showed that this need is already being met by a large number of humanitarian organizations and actors, which is why Caritas partners increasingly focused on the procurement and supply of drinking water and hygiene products.
• Shelter repair: In areas where it was safe to return and houses have only been lightly damaged, those affected were supported in making their homes habitable again. So-called shelter repair kits, with a basic set of tools and simple building materials, were distributed to affected households.
• Generators: Generators provide a reliable source of electricity in areas where the power grid has been affected by the dam break or fighting. This allows those affected and Caritas staff to charge their mobile phones and other devices. Mobile phones are particularly important for staying in touch with relatives. In addition, water pumps are operated by generators and many more.
• Cash assistance: In areas where shops and markets are still functioning, cash assistance (Cash/Voucher Assistance) was provided. This ensures that everyone can decide for themselves what is most urgently needed for themselves and their family. For some, it is clean clothes and food, for others a ticket to relatives in safer areas or a doctor's appointment.

Thank you for your support

Caritas' emergency response in Ukraine is a testament to the power of compassion and solidarity. Thanks to the generous support of donors, Caritas has been able to provide essential aid to millions of people in need. As a result, local Caritas organizations have been able to assist at least four million people since February 2022.

Links:

• Info of Caritas Austria support for Ukraine (GER)