Easter Ross appeal launched to help Ukrainian refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine
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An Easter Ross woman is this week launching an appeal to help the people of Ukraine fleeing the Russian invasion.
Dawn Aird, who is a 43 years old support worker with Mental Health Charity from Kildary, previously organised a successful collection to help children in Yemen.
She said she was hoping to organise a number of local collection points where people could donate items which will be organised in partnership with the Polish community who are currently organising a collection in Inverness.
Mrs Aird said it was still at a very early stage and added: "I have been fortunate to have both Mr Micheal Aitchison, the head teacher from Invergordon Academy, and Connie Farrell, deputy head teacher from Tain Royal Academy agree to help with collecting items among staff and pupils.
"Along with my friends in the local community centre, The Mercat Centre, who once again have kindly agreed to act as a public collection point for donations.
"I have once again reached out to the local Church of Scotland Kilmuir and Logie Easter, and Rev Alasdair Drummond has kindly offered to help with this appeal.
"They were very helpful in collecting donations from their congregation for the Yemen appeal."
This time, instead of clothing for babies and children which were collected for the Yemen appeal, she is hoping to collect items such as medical supplies and toiletries.
These would include non-perishable food items – such as rice and pasta – hot water bottles, new thermal underwear and thermal socks, sleeping bags, blankets and foam mats.
In addition people can donate baby items such as formula and bottles, flashlights, power banks, extension cords and candles.
Mrs Aird said: "The donations will be collected from the community centre by local volunteers and delivered to Inverness where they will start their next stage of journey onwards to the Ukraine /Poland border. The items will be distributed to refugees from Ukraine.
"Personally it’s a very difficult situation to witness the developments and conflict in Ukraine, however, being able to make a small donation knowing that it will help provide practical support to people, helps me feel that I too can make a small contribution to helping others in their time of need.
"I hope by giving local people in the community an opportunity to make small donations of items, they too can feel they are able to make a contribution to helping those suffering in this recent conflicts."
• Donations can be made at The Mercat Centre, 21 Old Mill Road, Milton, which can be contacted on 01862 842499.
