How Mid-Missourians can support Ukraine
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused hundreds of thousands of people to flee Ukraine in less than a week according to the United Nations Refugee Agency, creating what some have called a humanitarian crisis and a pressing need for aid.
The UN estimates 12 million people inside Ukraine will need relief and protection and more than 4 million Ukrainian refugees may need protection and assistance in neighboring countries in the next few months.
"It could become Europe's largest refugee crisis this century," said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said in a statement.
There are ways for Missourians to support to those in Ukraine and those who have fled to neighboring countries.
Caritas Ukraine is a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian assistance in the form of clothing, footwear and other items. The organization began its work in 1992 after Ukraine declared independence and was set up by local Greek Catholic communities to distribute.
Doctors Without Borders is an independent organization that provides medical care. Its team in Ukraine is working to help residents access needed health care as well as train the country’s doctors and nurses to provide medical treatment.
The International Committee of the Red Cross is also stepping up to help Ukrainians. ICRC partners with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and remains active in Ukraine saving and protecting the lives of victims of armed conflict and violence. Their mission is to provide humanitarian needs to the most vulnerable people.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is a UN agency that provides humanitarian and developmental aid to children all over the world. UNICEF is working to give safe water and other humanitarian needs to 7.5 million children in Ukraine.
The Better Business Bureau is reminding those who want to help with relief efforts to carefully check out charities before making a donation.
The BBB says to rely on respected experts to evaluate a charity. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or social media personalities because they may not have fully researched the relief organization they are suggesting.
If you are donating items such as clothing or food it's best to ask the charity about their transportation and distribution plans. It's best to be wary of those who are not experienced in refugee relief.
Those donating should be cautious of crowdfunding. These sites will do very little to check out individuals seeking funds after a disaster. Donors may not be able to verify whether an organization or individual seeking the funds is trustworthy.
For more information on ways to protect yourself while providing aid, head to https://www.bbb.org.
