It was tremendous to see Newcastle’s response to the crisis in Ukraine when I visited the collection point at Merrial Street earlier this morning.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council have generously made two shops on Merrial Street available. These have been filled with donated items, boxed up by volunteers who have worked tirelessly to sort and pack the goods.
I met the amazing Maria Leligdowicz and Olena Cresswell (second photo) who are spearheading the campaign, as well as volunteers Ernie and Ingrid (first photo, with Maria), to get clothes and toiletries to Ukraine.
Transport is currently being arranged, with the hope that the first 7-ton truck will leave on Monday. I was also grateful to Signal 1 for interviewing Maria as the shop should quite rightfully be promoted in any way it can be.
Thank you to everyone in Newcastle who has responded so generously. The easiest way to donate remains directly to the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal.