VAN number 112 will leave Annan today headed for Ukraine full of desperately needed supplies and donations.
It is being sent by Annan’s NewStart Recycling organisation, who continue to provide clothes, food and medicines to those who need it most in the war-torn country.
For the latest collection, they have been working with the team at the Ukrainian POW chapel in Lockerbie.
NewStart manager Tony Nisbet said their calls for supplies to send to Ukraine have been very well supported locally in the last 18 months, in Annan and beyond.
Indeed, the response has been so good that the group have had to rent out several lockup spaces to store items.
Tony said: “We’ve been doing what we can to continue supplying Ukrainians with supplies.
“We have been receiving less donations than we were previously, but that is completely understandable.”
However, he added: “While the buzz about the conflict with Russia may have died down, they still need help.
“NewStart have been working with the Dumfries and Galloway Armed Forces Appeal, alongside continuing to interact and give aid to refugee families that have moved to Annan and the surrounding areas.
“The impact of our efforts in Ukraine has been overwhelming, with out exploits broadcast on the BBC which triggered even more aid.
“We couldn’t have gotten as far as we hav without the fantastic spirit of our community, alongside the immense help from local businesses.”
They are still taking donations but Tony said: “Once again, these donations aren’t an opportunity to clear out unwanted items.
“Items have to be fit for purpose. It isn’t fair on people if they’re given a pair of completely worn trainers or a stained, dirty shirt.
“People tend to look at our name “Recycle” and assume they can give away a chair covered in cat scratches, but that isn’t the case at all.”
To find out more about how to help and donate to NewStart and project Ukraine, call 07762 750401 or email [email protected].
