Convoy Helps Provide a New Hope in Ukraine
April 2, 2024 | 4:21 p.m.
“I want to go home, but I can’t.”
This is the reality for many Ukrainians living through the now two-year war in their country. They don’t have a home to go back to. The United Nations reports that the number of Ukrainian refugees in Europe has surpassed 5 million.
Times of war are filled with uncertainty, but where there is compassion, there is hope. Thank you for your support: You make this long-term response possible.
February 21, 2024 | 3:55 p.m.
The end of February marks two years since the war in Ukraine began, and the need is still great. The United Nations Refugee Agency estimates that 14.6 million Ukrainians will need humanitarian assistance in 2024.
Now, two years into the conflict, Convoy is still working to bring help and hope to Ukrainians in need. Convoy has distributed more than 50 million meals to those left devastated by the war. And we’re not done. The war in Ukraine continues, and so does Convoy’s response.
When the conflict first began, Convoy of Hope immediately took action. Within weeks of the war’s start, Convoy’s team quickly procured a warehouse and established a distribution network that reached all the way to the frontlines.
Ukrainians have lost their homes, livelihoods, and stability. If able, they’ve fled for their lives and the lives of their children. And even in safer areas, they’ve found themselves living in the middle of winter without access to consistent heat or electricity.
When a person loses their home and their life completely changes, a meal can mean the world. When parents flee with their children for safety but there is no guarantee when they will eat next, a meal is a burden lifted from their shoulders.
“When the aid comes to us, we feel that we are not alone,” said Andrii, one of Convoy’s partners in Ukraine.
In addition to the meals, Convoy has partnered with many different businesses and organizations to meet different needs in Ukraine.
Big Blanket Co. has partnered with Convoy of Hope to provide warm blankets to Ukrainians as they grapple with harsh winter conditions. Some 1,500 blankets have been distributed to Ukrainians in need since the start of 2023.
ROMA Boots partnered with Convoy of Hope to provide boots to refugee children displaced by the ongoing conflict.
Through partnership with Champion Power Equipment, Convoy has sent more than 1,200 generators to Ukrainians so far. Generators are crucial in providing power during rolling blackouts, which are caused by damaged infrastructure.
“You really are a great help,” said Andrii. “You can’t fully imagine or realize how much you are helping the people of Ukraine.”
With the help of generous donors and partners, Convoy of Hope continues to provide a sense of comfort and hope in the middle of a time of uncertainty and devastation.
January 26, 2024 | 11:59 a.m.
It’s been nearly two years since the current war began in Ukraine. This will be the third winter Ukrainians have had to endure amid the chaos and unknowns that come with living in a conflict zone.
Power outages, food shortages, and lack of secure shelter are all challenges families in Ukraine face every day. With temperatures dropping below freezing at night, winterization supplies are vital.
Big Blanket Co. has partnered with Convoy of Hope to provide warm blankets to Ukrainians as they grapple with harsh winter conditions. Some 1,500 blankets have been distributed to Ukrainians in need since the start of 2023.
During the Christmas season, Convoy partnered with a local church in Ukraine to distribute 5,000 kits of candies and toys to children who were forced to flee from their war-torn communities. Though Christmas looked worlds different to children in Ukraine, Convoy helped bring a sense of joy to their families during this darkest time in their lives.
Despite increasingly challenging circumstances, Convoy remains committed to providing help and hope to the people of Ukraine, whether that’s through vital supplies for winterization or a simple gift of candy and a toy. Thank you for helping Convoy make a difference.
December 15, 2023 | 9:38 a.m.
Recently, a Ukrainian van full of relief supplies from Convoy of Hope encountered the dangerous reality of providing hope in a conflict zone.
This video shows the very real threat that volunteer drivers face every time they deliver relief within Ukraine. Sadly, circumstances like this have not been uncommon since Convoy started serving survivors of the war in 2022.
Nearly two years have passed since the war began, and Convoy of Hope is still on the ground providing relief to the devastated people of Ukraine. Harsh winter conditions are on the horizon, and there is fear that infrastructure will be targeted again — this means supplies like generators, warm clothing, shoes, and tarps are vital for survival.
Convoy will continue providing relief in Ukraine. Despite the challenges our team and partners have faced, we are still delivering help and hope to the people who need it most.
September 6, 2023 | 4:15 p.m.
Convoy of Hope is partnering with International Relief Teams to provide tarps for damaged homes in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
Check out the video below to hear testimonials from survivors who received tarps from Convoy of Hope.
July 21, 2023 | 11:11 a.m.
Since the start of the war to now, Convoy of Hope has served nearly 4 million Ukrainians. With more than 36.4 million meals served, Convoy has brought help and hope to people devastated by the violence and unrest.
Before the war, Ukraine was one of the world’s largest exporters of grain. Now, Ukraine’s grain production is down 35% to 40% due to rising export costs and occupied fields. Additionally, Russia has terminated its part in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, meaning it will no longer enable Ukrainian cargo ships to pass safely out of Ukrainian ports.
This poses threats to food security in vulnerable countries, especially the Horn of Africa, where countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia are experiencing a yearslong severe drought.
Convoy of Hope will continue to provide relief for Ukrainians and those affected by the war — including vulnerable people in the Horn of Africa.
July 11, 2023 | 1:39 p.m.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to pose significant challenges to Ukrainians daily. People are fleeing for their lives in search of safety and stability, especially to a town outside of Kyiv. There, Convoy of Hope has joined with local partners to provide relief supplies for people taking refuge in the area.
Vadim, a pastor of a church in the area, wrote to Convoy to express his heartfelt thanks.
“These seemingly ordinary items held extraordinary meaning for those in need,” he said of the hygiene kits included in the distribution. “The ability to care for their bodies and maintain personal hygiene brought them a sense of dignity, normalcy, and renewed hope amidst the chaos that surrounded them.”
Convoy of Hope is also actively addressing needs in the Kherson region, where the destruction of a hydroelectric power plant dam severely impacted the area with devastating floods.
Distribution operations remain underway, focusing on providing essential aid and support to communities in this region. These distributions are filled with vital supplies that have been instrumental in providing hope for individuals and families struggling with the ongoing consequences of war.
June 13, 2023 | 2:50 p.m.
For many Ukrainians, day-to-day life feels like a nightmare rather than reality. Countless people go without consistent electricity and running water, forcing them to rely on rain puddles and water filters for clean drinking water. Convoy of Hope continues to work with partners in and outside of Ukraine to provide much-needed relief to those devastated by the war.
June 12, 2023 | 4:45 p.m.
Convoy of Hope is working with partners on the ground in Ukraine to send loads of supplies to the Kherson region, an area that was recently flooded after a dam collapsed. These supplies will provide much-needed relief to those who lost their homes in the flood.
June 8, 2023 | 3:38 p.m.
Yesterday, a dam collapsed in war-torn southern Ukraine, flooding homes and stranding hundreds of people on top of their roofs. The Kakhovka hydroelectric dam collapsed and emptied into the Dnieper River. The area was already suffering from the violent conflict that started more than a year ago.
With the added flooding from the dam break, tens of thousands of people are deprived of clean drinking water and adequate shelter. The flood waters ruined crops, displaced land mines, and set the stage for even more long-term electricity shortages.
The flooding adds another layer of devastation for an already vulnerable population. Convoy of Hope’s partners in the area estimate that more than 80 communities are flooded as a result. Convoy is responding with loads of relief supplies and remains committed to providing relief and help to those in need.
May 17, 2023 | 4:23 p.m.
It’s been more than a year since the war in Ukraine started. The crisis is increasing, and Ukrainians in and outside the country are still suffering. Roughly 11 million people in Ukraine are considered food insecure. Damage to critical infrastructure has left over 12 million people with limited to no electricity.
The war has left many people destitute, destroying their homes and livelihoods. Food production and supply lines are disrupted by fighting, which limits reliable access to nutritious food. Many people who fled at the beginning of the war have nothing to return to.
Convoy of Hope is still working with partners in the area to provide help and relief to people. More than 425 containers have been shipped to the region for distribution to people in need. More than 3 million people have received relief in the form of food, water, baby care supplies, and more.
As the need in and around Ukraine continues, so will Convoy of Hope’s response.
April 20, 2023 | 4:06 p.m.
Convoy of Hope is partnering with Airlink, a nonprofit organization that works with aviation and logistics partners to transport emergency supplies for response agencies to crises around the world. Airlink has helped Convoy of Hope ship 140 pallets of rice meals to refugees in Ukraine — making a significant impact in alleviating hunger and food insecurity in the area.
Additionally, through Convoy’s partnership with Champion Power Equipment, Convoy has sent more than 1,200 generators to survivors so far. Generators are crucial in providing power during the rolling blackouts, which are caused by damage to infrastructure.
Vital partnerships like these are making a difference in providing relief for individuals and families still trapped in the muddy waters of war and uncertainty. The need is real and widespread, but so are Convoy of Hope’s efforts to supply hope.
March 30, 2023 | 11:30 a.m.
To date, nearly 400 containers from Convoy of Hope have been delivered, cleared, or are in transit to countries across Europe in response to the war in Ukraine. Most recently, Convoy shipped 20 containers of rice and several generators to help those affected by the war.
In the first few months of 2023, Convoy’s partners in Ukraine delivered 45 loads to local churches from the new operations warehouse on the outskirts of Kyiv. The delivery of these containers will help churches and partners in Ukraine cope with the growing number of internally displaced people. As one of Convoy’s disaster responders recently said, “It is hard to communicate the massive amount of need that still exists across the country.”
One of those needs is for the very basics, such as bread. “I never thought that bread could be so delicious, and never thought I would actually dream about bread!” said Vitaly, one of the people Convoy has served in Ukraine.
Like most Ukrainians, Vitaly was not prepared for the war’s escalation. Basic services, such as light, water, and gas, were gone. Peace and tranquility disappeared. Shops, pharmacies, and grocery stores closed.
“The streets have become empty and gray, scary and dangerous,” said Vitaly. “Because of the roar of military equipment, bombing, and constant gunfire, the basement has become one of the safest places for many people.”
With food suddenly in short supply, the everyday occurrence of freshly baked bread suddenly became a luxury. But Convoy of Hope provided Vitaly and his community with this basic necessity … and gave them a source of unexpected hope.
“It is impossible to forget this feeling when you are holding this fragrant loaf of bread in your hands,” said Vitaly. “No matter how much I wanted to eat it myself in one breath, I knew that there were other people waiting for it in the basement. I had to share.”
Vitaly also had a message for Convoy of Hope and its supporters: “Kind people! Thank you for this moment of happiness, when you are holding bread in your hand and have a chance to eat! Thank you so much!”
Convoy of Hope, local organisations, and church partners are still working tirelessly to provide essential supplies across the region. Through our network of partners and supporters, hope is being delivered to millions of people in Ukraine and throughout Eastern Europe.
March 10, 2023 | 10:26 a.m.
The war in Ukraine is ongoing, leaving many people in dire circumstances. Electricity is still unreliable. Without electricity, businesses cannot run, stores cannot remain open, and food becomes more scarce. The lack of power further exacerbates an already desperate situation, making it difficult for people to function in their daily lives. The suffering of Ukrainians is palpable as they bear the brunt of the war. Many live in constant fear and uncertainty, unsure of what the future may bring.
Mykhailo, Margarita, and their 5-year-old daughter lived near Kyiv. “On February 24, [2022], we woke up and saw all of the missed calls on our phones from family and friends,” Margarita recalls. “Then the military airfield next to us was hit by several missiles.”
Convoy of Hope has distributed millions of meals across Ukraine.
Their family spent 10 days in their cellar. “I prayed every night,” Margarita said. “You don’t know when the next [missile] will fly over and where it will hit.” The fighting intensified in their city, and the school across the street was hit by a bomb. The supports in their cellar swayed as the battle came within a block of their house.
Mikhail and Margarita fled to a safer region. Through Convoy of Hope, they found shelter at a church in western Ukraine. They’re still there, waiting for an end to the war and the ability to start life again.
The need in Ukraine is great and Convoy of Hope is working hard to meet these needs. Convoy recently sent truckloads of rice to Ukraine to help supplement meals. Additionally, Convoy is continuing to provide and distribute generators to ensure people have consistent access to electricity. Amid the turmoil and chaos of the ongoing chaos, Convoy of Hope is there to provide hope and a lifeline to survivors in desperate need.
February 24, 2023 | 7:50 a.m.
Since the beginning of the war, Convoy of Hope has been providing relief and hope for Ukrainians in and outside of the country. What started as distributions in Poland serving Ukrainian refugees has since grown into a network of partnerships that reaches Ukrainians in Ukraine and all over Europe.
The need is still high. As Convoy of Hope looks to the future of its response, a new phase of distribution has begun. The warehouse in Poland is moving to distribute from a warehouse in Ukraine. In partnership with local organisations and churches, relief supplies will be distributed across the country — often in locations close to the frontline or that have been recently liberated. The need is dire in these locations as they are often without electricity and water.
Since moving the warehouse to Ukraine, the distribution process is much smoother. Now, trucks leave the warehouse and go directly to the churches and organizations to begin distributing supplies. Additionally, Convoy can now source supplies from within Ukraine. This has helped cut costs by 30%, meaning more supplies can be procured and distributed into the hands of people who desperately need them.
Recently, Convoy of Hope partnered with Carhartt® to distribute coats to children in Ukraine.
Winter is still in full swing in Ukraine. The coldest months last through March. Convoy of Hope is distributing winterisation supplies like winter clothing and generators to help combat the dangers that come with facing a winter without consistent access to heat and vital supplies.
The conflict in Ukraine continues, so Convoy of Hope continues helping people in need. With the help of generous donors and in partnerships with organisations and churches on the ground, Convoy of Hope will continue to provide a sense of comfort and hope in the middle of a time of uncertainty and devastation.
February 22, 2023 | 2:16 p.m.
On February 24, 2022, the war in Ukraine began. One year later, Ukrainians are still suffering. Nearly 50% of the power infrastructure in Ukraine has been destroyed. Many people do not have access to consistent power or heat. Rolling blackouts mean some areas go 24 to 48 hours without power. Combined with winter weather and below-freezing temperatures, Ukrainians are facing the fear of freezing to death.
Convoy of Hope is responding with winterisation supplies and support. In the first two months of 2023 alone, Convoy of Hope has sent more than 50 loads of supplies to the people affected by the ongoing conflict. Currently, Convoy of Hope is focused on empowering organizations within Ukraine with resources to distribute to people in need. In partnership with a network of local churches and organizations, people all over Ukraine are receiving food, water, generators, winter clothing, and more.
These partners set up a distribution centre location. To reach more people in need, they load vans and buses with supplies and take them to people who can’t travel to the distribution locations.
“I don’t think you can quite describe the way it feels to give a coat to a kid and see their eyes light up,” said Convoy of Hope partner Joel Colon. “Especially in those areas [where] none of the stores are working. Even if [parents] wanted to buy their kid a coat, they can’t.”
At the beginning of the war, sourcing supplies from inside Ukraine was difficult and, at some times, impossible. Now, Convoy of Hope purchases most of the food-related supplies from within Ukraine, cutting down costs, providing more supplies, and stimulating the country’s economy.
“[Survivors] are so happy that someone has cared about them and brought them aid,” Joel said. “They are completely downtrodden and in many ways, [they have] lost hope. So you’re bringing them aid, but you’re also bringing them the idea that they’re not forgotten and that you want to help them. Emotionally, that’s a huge thing for them.”
With the help of generous donors, Convoy of Hope is providing relief and hope amid a state of complete devastation for survivors. To support Convoy’s work serving people still inside Ukraine and refugees around the world, donate here.
February 20, 2023 | 10:30 a.m.
The end of February marks one year since the war in Ukraine began. Since February 2022, roughly 5.3 million Ukrainians have been internally displaced. Eight million refugees have fled into surrounding countries. People are living in cold-weather conditions without access to consistent heat or electricity.
When the conflict first began, Convoy immediately took action. Within a week of the start of the war, Convoy of Hope’s team quickly procured a warehouse and distribution network to begin fulfilling the needs of the people affected by the war. Miraculously, processes and paperwork that would typically take weeks only took Convoy’s teams a few hours.
Strategically Placed Warehouses in Poland & Romania
Convoy of Hope was there to help when 3 million refugees fled into Poland within a month of the war starting. The majority of the refugees were women and children with nowhere to go once they crossed the border. Buses full of devastated people poured into surrounding nations.
Convoy set up a warehouse and distribution center in Poland and Romania to help meet the needs of vulnerable people as they fled from their homes. Teams provided hot meals at the border of Poland and Ukraine to refugees as they fled for their lives.
“The response of Europe and Poland, especially, was unprecedented,” said Convoy’s Ryan Grabill. “They welcomed refugees by the millions and then figured out how to provide housing, jobs, refugee status, and importation rules as they went about it. When talking with families in Ukraine, I heard many people say the same thing: ‘We didn’t know we had friends.’ Many Ukrainians thought every border of theirs would be shut and they would have no way out.”
In total, Convoy has served Ukrainian refugees in 16 countries around the world, distributing millions of meals and more than 8 million pounds of relief supplies to people in need.
The Bravery of Drivers, Partners & Teams
In the year that followed, Convoy of Hope continued distributing supplies from its warehouse in Poland. Truck drivers would drive from Ukraine into Poland, load the trucks, and make the dangerous trek back into Ukraine to begin distributions. Without their bravery, Convoy of Hope would not have been able to reach as many people so quickly.
Since the start of the war, Convoy of Hope has expanded its reach further into Ukraine through partnerships with local organisations, church networks, and government offices. To date, Convoy has provided more than 325 truckloads worth of food, hygiene supplies, winter clothing, generators, and other essentials. In addition to containers, relief supplies are being delivered by plane or train, and are often purchased locally.
The people of Ukraine have seen complete devastation, felt the heavy weight of grief, and experienced innumerable losses. But Convoy of Hope — because of generous donors, partners, and volunteers — provides hope to people during the darkest days of their lives. Every obstacle Convoy encountered was met with new partners, connections, and possibilities to help more people.
February 14, 2023 | 3:40 p.m.
There are now more than 8 million Ukrainian refugees across Europe and 5.4 million internally displaced people within Ukraine. The toll on civilians has been devastating, and the need is still high.
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has recorded nearly 7,200 civilian casualties since the conflict began almost one year ago.
Convoy of Hope continues to distribute relief supplies across the affected regions through local organizations and church partners. One of the dangers posed to many displaced people is the cold weather. As temperatures drop below freezing at night, the need for winter clothing is crucial. Convoy has made this the main focus of distributions during cold weather months.
In November, Convoy of Hope partnered with Demi Tebow and ROMA Boots to provide boots for refugee children displaced by the ongoing war in Ukraine. Since then, more boots have arrived and are being distributed.
“Our partnership with ROMA has made a big difference here. To see kids smiling as they get to put on brand new boots is a spot of light in a dark time,” said Convoy’s Neemias Cortes.
Convoy of Hope’s partnership with ROMA Boots is one of many that helps fulfill the mission of providing hope to vulnerable people. Convoy teams will continue to provide relief for Ukrainians affected by the war and winter weather.
January 27, 2023 | 12:09 p.m.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, more and more families are seeking refuge in and outside its borders. Convoy of Hope remains committed to helping Ukrainians and meeting their needs with consistent truckloads of relief supplies.
“There is still help needed in Ukraine as the war continues on and more missile strikes happen. More families are moving out potentially,” said Convoy’s Ryan Grabill.
In addition to internally displaced people, Convoy of Hope is working to alleviate needs for refugees in nine surrounding countries — Austria, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. In all, Convoy is serving people in 16 countries who have been affected by the war.
As the war enters its twelfth month, people around the world are still invested in the lives of Ukrainians. “Churches in the U.S. really wanted to do something [for Ukraine],” said Convoy’s Kelby Marlin. “So we’re picking up a lot of loads stateside for an international event.”
These supplies are desperately needed. Half of Ukraine’s power infrastructure has now been destroyed, which puts millions of people at risk. With temperatures rarely rising above freezing and the expected snow next week, Convoy’s winterization kits will be vital assets for surviving the brutal winter conditions.
January 13, 2023 | 11:05 a.m.
As the number of Ukrainian refugees across Europe looms closer to 8 million, Convoy of Hope continues to respond to the needs of survivors inside and outside of the country. The greatest needs are supplies that are vital to survive the present and coming winter.
One way Convoy has provided relief is by supplying generators to as many people as possible. In late December, roughly 9 million Ukrainians were without electricity. Along with the generators and regularly supplied food kits, Convoy has provided winterization kits that contain hats, gloves, and coats.
During this past holiday season, Convoy of Hope worked with local churches and partners to distribute more than 6,900 gift boxes to kids inside the country.
The displacement crisis in Ukraine is the largest the world has seen since World War II. Along with the 8 million refugees fleeing to surrounding countries, an additional 6 million people are displaced within the country itself.
With lowering temperatures standard to Ukraine’s winter season, displaced people are experiencing difficulties finding safe, liveable shelter. Within the next 10 days, temperatures are expected to drop drastically.
Lowered temperatures have already created difficult living conditions, especially for those who have found shelter in abandoned basements and subway stations. When exposed to cold-weather conditions like what is expected next week, it can take less than 30 minutes for frostbite to set in. Untreated frostbite can lead to growth complications in children, tetanus, gangrene, hypothermia, and more.
Convoy remains committed to supporting the people of Ukraine — both inside and outside of the country — and will continue to work with partners to provide hope for a better tomorrow.
December 20, 2022 | 8:25 a.m.
When asked about the circumstances for Ukrainians in and outside of the country, Convoy of Hope’s in-country contacts agree — the situation is worse than ever.
Amid brutal winter temperatures, rolling power outages, and waning hospitality of those who have opened their homes to refugees, the need for aid continues to escalate. Recent attacks on power stations have people scrambling to find electricity and fuel to heat their homes.
Regularly supplied food kits from Convoy of Hope are distributed in Ukraine.
Convoy of Hope is continuing to help as many people as possible with winterisation kits containing coats, gloves, hats, and generators. So far, hundreds of generators have been distributed and the plan to continue distributing them is underway.
Nearly 8 million Ukrainians have fled their country and another 8 million have been displaced within Ukraine since the war began in February.
December 9, 2022 | 10:22 a.m.
Winter looms large for both Ukrainians and refugees who have fled to neighbouring regions. According to the IRC, the average temperature during a Ukrainian winter is 23 to 36 degrees. In some regions, though, temperatures regularly drop to minus 5. Heavy snowfall has already been recorded throughout much of the country, and Ukraine’s Energy Industry Research Centre has reported that power has been disrupted in more than 10.5 million households — roughly half of the country’s population.
“About 50% of Ukraine’s energy systems have been damaged, and 45% of Kyiv currently doesn’t have access to electricity,” said Antonina Antosha, spokesperson of Ukrainian energy provider DTEK Group as reported by Foreign Policy.
Convoy of Hope is making sure those we serve are as prepared as possible for the coming winter months.
Since the war began, Convoy of Hope’s response to the war in Ukraine has served more than 2.5 million people in 102 communities across 16 countries. As 2022 ends and the one-year anniversary of the war approaches, Convoy remains committed to serving the people of Ukraine and making sure — despite the circumstances — that they have hope for tomorrow.
December 7, 2022 | 3:45 p.m.
Children in Ukraine have suffered immensely from the war. War is scarring for adults … for children, the traumas of living in a war-torn country can derail their entire lives.
When the war began, caretakers at orphanages and parents across Ukraine knew the only sure way to keep their children safe: leave the country. But where could they go? How would they transport dozens of children safely through a war zone? And how would they feed everyone?
Watch this video to see how these brave volunteers stepped in to keep Ukrainian children safe and how Convoy of Hope was part of the solution.
November 22, 2022 | 4:34 p.m.
The war in Ukraine continues. Recent bombings significantly damaged their power grid, and temperatures in the region are expected to drop far below freezing. As winter sets in across eastern Europe, cold-weather necessities are becoming even more important for those seeking shelter.
ROMA Boots and Demi Tebow recently partnered with Convoy of Hope to provide boots to refugee children displaced by the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“For me, this [partnership] is very special — not only because I was born in Romania and am part Ukrainian, but because I was given hope over 30 years ago and I was able to migrate to the U.S. as a refugee,” says ROMA Boots Founder Samuel Bistrian. “To be able to donate 100,000 boots to Ukrainian refugees in the same region where I was born, to children who desperately need them, with a great organization like Convoy of Hope, is truly monumental.”
ROMA Boots donates one brand new pair of boots to a child in need for every pair sold. Over the last 12 years, the company has donated hundreds of thousands of boots in more than 30 countries around the world. The company’s mission is to bring impoverished children hope, love, and lasting change through aid and education.
“It’s been such an honor to be able to come alongside ROMA Boots and Convoy of Hope, to see firsthand the hope that these boots bring to children in need,” says Demi Tebow. “As winter begins setting in across eastern Europe, refugees and impoverished children need help and hope more than ever. I’m honored to join ROMA and Convoy to help make a lasting impact in the communities that have been affected.”
The World Health Organization recently reported that half of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is either damaged or destroyed, and 10 million people are without power. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, thousands upon thousands of Ukrainian men, women, and children have been killed or injured since the war began.
November 2, 2022 | 2:15 p.m.
Daryia is 17 years old, and her life has been turned upside down because of the war in Ukraine.
Instead of living the life of a 17-year-old, she is living life as a refugee. Instead of spending days with friends and finishing her education, she is completely responsible for her 6-year-old brother, Aleksander. And instead of coming home each night to her family, she sits in another country and tries not to think about those she loves living in a war zone.
“The war started near our place, and we were under occupation,” Daryia said. “We heard the rockets and the bombs and the explosions. It was so dangerous to stay there.”
It is still incredibly dangerous to be in Ukraine. Recent bombing has seriously damaged 40% of the country’s power grid. Rolling blackouts in Kyiv have become a daily occurrence. More than 800,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed since the war began in February. On top of it all, the traditionally brutal Ukrainian winter is beginning.
But Convoy of Hope remains committed to providing food, water, and relief supplies to people suffering from the conflict.
At the start of the war, Daryia and her entire family — father, mother, brother, and grandmother — didn’t leave their house for a month. Her parents became so concerned for their safety that they sent them 250 miles west, but even that wasn’t far enough to escape the fighting. Her mother told her to flee to Romania so they wouldn’t constantly be wondering about her safety.
Daryia agreed, under one condition. “I said I would only go with my brother. I won’t leave him behind.”
She found her way to a group home for children whose parents sent them out of Ukraine and away from the war. There, Daryia and Aleksander live with 35 other children, just waiting for the war to end. But through it all, they receive healthy meals each day through Convoy of Hope.
Daryia’s main goal is to keep Aleksander safe. “Sometimes he’s so sad,” she said with sadness. “He misses his mom. Especially in the evening, he can start to cry. But I’m next to him. And we are together.”
When asked if she had become a mother figure to him, she sighed and said, “Yeah. It was not my habit to look after my brother, but day by day, I have adapted to be like a mother for him.”
She’s endlessly grateful for the group home, though. “For me, it’s security. From the other side, I know that it’s very important that I’m here and my brother is here. We’re safe, and nothing bad will happen here.”
Convoy is working through partners in 16 countries to distribute relief supplies. After months and months of war, the needs of those trying to escape violence continue to press in on them.
But Daryia — even through the tragedy and fear — has found a way to give back. Several of the children living with her and Aleksander come to her to have their hair combed, braided, or decorated. When asked if she helps the girls and boys with their hair, she laughed.
“Yes. Unofficially.”
October 19, 2022 | 11:59 a.m.
October has been brutally difficult for Ukrainians. Shelling has occurred in nearly all major population centers. People across the nation are afraid, and it has been reported that many are leaving big cities and going to rural villages for safety.
In the middle of this chaotic and fearful time, school started for Ukrainian children in September. Because of the war, many did not have school supplies.
Through the partnership, Convoy of Hope purchased and distributed more than 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies and a pair of shoes.
“I had a conversation with one of our Ukrainian team members at our warehouse,” said Convoy’s Neemias Cortes. “They shared that, in Ukraine, people usually take out a loan to purchase school supplies for their kids. When someone gives them the supplies instead, they can’t believe it.”
Convoy of Hope continues to distribute food and winterization items in the most needed areas. A truckload of space heaters will be sent to cities on the frontlines of the war, where attacks have damaged heating systems. In Romania, Convoy and local partners recently distributed 7,000 bags of food to Ukrainian refugees this week.
October 7, 2022 | 8:17 a.m.
Convoy of Hope has served more than 2.1 million people in 102 cities and villages as part of our response to the war in Ukraine. In 16 countries across Europe, refugees are receiving a warm meal and the knowledge that someone cares for them.
Relief supplies from Convoy of Hope are delivered at an undisclosed location in Ukraine.
As winter weather begins to set in across Eastern Europe, relief has never been more important. Many families across Ukraine do not have the ability to heat their homes due to the damage caused by incessant missile strikes. Many families couldn’t plant or harvest during the summer because of the war — the gardens they managed to plant will soon be covered with snow.
Convoy and its partners are equipping refugees with the supplies they need to weather what could be a brutal winter. More than 170 truckloads of food have been delivered to nearly all corners of Ukraine, providing aid to refugees, the elderly, those with access and functional needs, and even hospitals. Along with food, we’ve been able to provide some medical equipment and medical aid.
Ukrainians receive groceries provided by Convoy of Hope.
In addition to the truckloads delivered in Ukraine, 170 containers of relief supplies have either been delivered, cleared, or are in transit to Poland. In Romania, more than 7,000 bags of food will be given to Ukrainian refugees this week, and nearly 80 containers of relief supplies have either been delivered, cleared, or are in transit to the country.
The weariness of war is weighing heavily on Ukrainians. Join Convoy of Hope as we commit to providing relief for Ukraine until this conflict is over.
September 13, 2022 | 12:46 p.m.
The Ukrainian military regained more than 1,000 square miles of land in the Kharkiv region over the weekend. Ukrainians hope this is a turning point in the war that will more quickly lead to peace.
Convoy continues to deliver relief supplies further and further east as more communities gain liberation and as needs continue to be highest closer to the front lines.
“There’s no single residential building that wasn’t damaged,” Izium’s mayor, Valeriy Marchenko, told The New York Times. “Heating is the biggest problem. I doubt whether we would be able to restore the heating system before winter.”
Regardless of the news, war still rages in the country. The stability of Zaporizhzhia’s nuclear power plant continues to be a major concern, and fighting in the south of the country continues to be fierce.
Convoy of Hope is committed to providing relief to Ukrainians affected by the war. Whether they live in the war zone or have fled to neighbouring countries, Convoy and our partners are doing everything we can to provide hope in this unpredictable storm.
August 30, 2022 | 3:50 p.m.
A team from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is en route to Ukraine’s nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia. Recent shelling came dangerously close to the plant, triggering fears of a potential disaster. Thankfully, scientists have not recorded any abnormal radiation levels. The IAEA will verify those reports and inspect the facility for any hazards.
The war goes on, but so does Convoy of Hope’s efforts to feed Ukrainians in need. Convoy continues to deliver food, water, and relief supplies to those whose lives have been turned upside down by the conflict.
Below are images from inside Ukraine and in bordering countries where Convoy is serving refugees.
August 26, 2022 | 9:33 a.m.
More than 10 million Ukrainians have fled their homes since the start of the war. That’s four and a half times the population of Los Angeles.
Convoy of Hope is still responding to the crisis. So far:
160 containers have been delivered, cleared, or are in transit to Convoy’s warehouse in Poland.
80 containers have been sent to Romania and Albania.
This week, our team in Poland plans to send 11 tractor-trailer loads of food, water, and relief supplies into Ukraine. And in Romania, our partners are distributing thousands of family food kits.
Sadly, we’ve gotten word that local churches and nonprofits are overwhelmed with refugees moving through their cities. The need is still great. Thank you for your continued support and your commitment to the people of Ukraine.
August 23, 2022 | 3:45 p.m.
Recent drone footage captured Convoy of Hope team members and volunteers unloading supplies into a warehouse in Poland, which is where they will be prepared for distribution.
The drone gives an inside look on how Convoy’s generous partners and supporters are helping survivors of the war in Ukraine. As we pass the 6-month mark of extreme conflict, your support is needed now more than ever.
In partnership with The Salvation Army and FedEx, Convoy of Hope sent a shipment of 30 pallets containing food, hygiene kits, baby care kits, and water filters to Poland. These supplies are being distributed to Ukrainian women and children.
To date, 160 shipping containers have been cleared, delivered, or are in transit to Poland from Convoy of Hope’s World Distribution Center. These supplies, which were readily available in Ukraine 6 months ago, are now difficult — if not impossible — for people to find.
Millions of survivors are left vulnerable by the war, but Convoy’s partnership with volunteers on the ground ensures they will not go without help. Convoy of Hope continues to anticipate items that refugees might need in preparation for the winter.
Teams are continuing to work toward the goal of providing 50 million meals to the people of Ukraine.
August 17, 2022 | 2:55 p.m.
The war is nearing its six-month mark, and fighting continues throughout eastern Ukraine. Convoy of Hope is still delivering much-needed food and supplies to sustain those whose lives have turned upside down.
In recent weeks, the region of Crimea has seen increased fighting. Additionally, intense scenes have broken out at the nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia.
Numbers estimating Ukrainian and Russian fatalities since the war’s start vary by source. The UN (OHCHR) estimates that more than 13,000 Ukraininans have been killed or wounded. According to Newsweek, more than 75,000 Russians have been killed or wounded since the start of the war.
What is for sure, is that areas not caught in the fighting are full to the brim with refugees. Millions are facing extreme circumstances to feed and shelter their families. Day and night, volunteers load unmarked vehicles with relief supplies, drive across the border, and distribute resources to people who need them most.
As we look toward the possibility of a war that extends into the winter, the need for support is increasing. Without your help, this would not be possible.
August 12, 2022 | 10:15 a.m.
For Ukrainians, your support is more than just food, water, and relief supplies — it’s hope. They know they aren’t alone.
Your commitment to those in Ukraine has never wavered. Thank you for supporting Convoy of Hope and the work we are doing in response to the war. Because of your steadfast partnership, our teams and partners on the ground are delivering hope day after day, week after week, month after month.
August 5, 2022 | 10:12 a.m.
Word of mouth and increasing needs have the line at one of Convoy’s distributions in Ukraine growing longer and longer. The combination of compromised food supply lines, millions of people displaced, and the massive disruption to people’s ability to work has created an extremely dire situation.
What food remains in local stores is not enough for the entire community. Thousands of internally displaced people are also taking refuge in what was once a place to shop for groceries.
Watch the video below of a recent distribution inside Ukraine as thousands wait in line.
Unlike many natural disasters — where the worst happens and recovery begins immediately — the need generated by the war in Ukraine is continuing to grow.
But your support is being felt by the Ukrainian people. To further support Convoy’s work serving Ukrainians affected by the war, explore options through our Relief for Ukraine campaign.
July 26, 2022 | 5:12 p.m.
In a monumental move, Russia and Ukraine signed an agreement Friday to free more than 20 million metric tons of grain stuck in Black Sea ports. This allows for exported trade and brings grain prices down to alleviate hunger.
This agreement has also paved the way for Convoy of Hope to provide more help to people affected by the war in Ukraine — one truckload at a time. Freeing up ports also frees up trucks within the country, allowing for more capacity to transport relief supplies.
To date, there are more than 325 million people worldwide experiencing “shock hunger,” classified as living in crisis levels of food insecurity. The effects of the war have kept this number on the rise. Freeing Ukraine’s main ports will be a relief for many on the receiving end.
In one way, open ports are a relief for the economy. During the time that ports were blocked, Ukrainians tried to export grain through other countries. This unfortunately added more complications to food transportation. Port access will streamline trade exponentially, and food prices will likely go down.
For Convoy, open ports mean lower transportation costs. Due to the dangers of war, delivering a load of supplies is nearly six times more expensive today, according to Convoy of Hope’s Senior Director of International Disaster Services Ryan Grabill.
“For relief agencies, it means you can only do a sixth of what you could do with the same amount of money,” Ryan said. “If this deal helps that issue, it would be a game changer for agencies distributing aid.”
But it’s less about prices improving and more about improving the efficiency of reaching people in need. Ukrainians are facing many unknowns — with shelled crops and ports being targeted — but they can rely on Convoy of Hope to provide relief.
July 22, 2022 | 10:58 a.m.
Unlike a hurricane or an earthquake, the war in Ukraine continues to unfold and deteriorate. This conflict requires a unique response to help those suffering the most.
The Relief for Ukraine campaign supports Convoy of Hope’s long-term efforts to help people affected by the war. Convoy is working with partners throughout Eastern Europe to provide food, water, and relief supplies to refugees and those who are caring for them.
July 15, 2022 | 11:40 p.m.
The potential for a global food crisis on the horizon. The war in Ukraine is not the only reason for the shortage. But, combined with COVID-19, fuel shortages, shipping delays, and climate crises, the war is playing a devastating role.
A new U.N. report on hunger revealed that 828 million people went hungry in 2021. Compared to 782 million the previous year, it’s an increase of 46 million people.
“There is a real danger these numbers will climb even higher in the months ahead,” said World Food Programme Executive Director David Beasley. “The global price spikes in food, fuel, and fertilizers that we are seeing as a result of the crisis in Ukraine threaten to push countries around the world into famine. The result will be global destabilization, starvation, and mass migration on an unprecedented scale. We have to act today to avert this looming catastrophe.”
In response to the war, Convoy of Hope is expanding its work to 14 countries. Ten are in Europe, and four are in other regions of the world but are heavily impacted by the war. Convoy is working tirelessly to supply food and increase food production in areas where famine is possible.
Europe – Convoy is supplying food and relief supplies to communities in Austria, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Ukraine.
Outside Europe – Convoy is serving people in three countries in the Middle East and one in the Horn of Africa where food is scarce because of the war.
For those who live on the cusp or in poverty, the possibility of hunger, famine, and starvation is becoming more real.
“A staggering 50 million people in 45 countries are just one step from famine,” said David Beasley of the World Food Program. “There is a real danger these numbers will climb even higher in the months ahead.”
Convoy of Hope is helping bridge the gap between those who can provide support and those whose futures are in serious jeopardy.
July 6, 2022 | 10:05 p.m.
*The story below contains a firsthand account of human suffering and war, which some readers may find disturbing.
The city of Mariupol has been one of the most significant casualties of the war in Ukraine. Massive sections of the once-vibrant port city are in shambles, and thousands of civilians are dead. Nowhere is safe, and no section of the city has gone unscathed.
Convoy of Hope has continuously responded to the conflict since the beginning. Teams are still serving refugees who have fled Ukraine as well as those displaced within the country.
Karolina is one of those people. She has lived in Mariupol her entire life. At 19 years old, she had plans, goals, and dreams. “Before the war, I was taking online classes … I had a job, and everything was fine. Everyone lived their own lives and dreamed of a better future for themselves.”
When her mother startled her awake on February 24, that way of life ended.
Fighting intensified quickly. Days and weeks passed as the city gradually burned to the ground. Chaos erupted as people looted shops, and food became difficult to find. Electricity, water, and gas shut down. People trapped in the city cooked over open fires when they weren’t hiding in their basements.
“We all shared what food we had, helped everyone we could,” Karolina said. “It soon became apparent we could never go back upstairs to our apartment. If we did and a missile hit, we knew we would be killed.”
The cost of human life in Mariupol has been enormous.
“Probably the worst thing for me was to see so much death,” Karolina says. “Bodies lying on the road. Children were buried in blankets. They died of starvation or illnesses for which they could not receive medication. It was not uncommon to see at least ten crosses near each high-rise building for the dead.”
When Karolina finally had the chance to escape, it also came at a great cost — she had to leave most of her friends and family behind. Many were too old to travel. Others felt like they couldn’t leave people behind. Only Karolina and her sister took the opportunity to leave.
Their escape was perilous. They had to trust strangers when passing through an active war zone and more than 30 checkpoints.
“A large section of the road was mined. One wrong move, and you exploded,” Karolina said. “When we all passed the first Ukrainian checkpoint, and our driver stopped to rest, we all climbed out of the car and started crying.”
They made their way to Lviv, where Convoy of Hope and its partners welcomed them with open arms. “Thank you … for the help, food, and hygiene products that you provide us,” Karolina said. “As soon as we came here, we immediately understood that here we will be able to rest.”
The suffering in Ukraine is immense, and so is the need. That’s why Convoy remains committed to providing 50 million meals to people affected by the war.
Thank you for joining us as we provide hope to people whose lives have turned upside down.
NBC Features Convoy’s Ukraine Response
NBC’s Ellison Barber recently reported on Convoy of Hope’s commitment to feed the people of Ukraine. Watch as she visits Convoy of Hope’s warehouse in Poland and follows an aid shipment into the heart of the war zone.
June 29, 2022 | 4:35 p.m.
More than 125 days into the war in Ukraine, the needs in the country are still prevalent. Heavy fighting continues, with intense bombardment in eastern Ukraine and missiles hitting Kyiv.
The war has left medical centres overwhelmed, and families are in desperate situations. But thanks to Convoy of Hope’s generous supporters, we’ve been able to expand our aid.
The Salvation Army recently partnered with Convoy, donating $1 million worth of food and logistics to the response. Convoy recently received additional medical supplies from another generous partner. These valuable supplies are continually being sent to health care facilities in Ukraine.
Help in Romania & Poland
For those fleeing the war, border countries can be a source of refuge in an uncertain time.
Convoy is continuing to purchase truckloads of product in Romania and 10 containers filled with relief supplies have arrived in the country. Volunteers from a local partner organization repackaged the purchased food into kits that will be distributed in Ukraine. At a recent distribution, at least 600 people showed up to receive food. On average, volunteers in Romania are distributing 5,000 food kits per week and are working to increase that number as needs grow across the region.
On the border of Poland, a ministry group is helping greet thousands of refugees with supplies Convoy has provided.
The group, which has been there since the start of the war, prepares food, coffee and tea, supplies, and children’s toys for incoming Ukrainians. As buses make stops on the Polish border, these volunteers are there to bring “a good word and some food” to refugees who have gone days without a hot meal.
Nikolas, who is helping prepare meals at the border in Poland, says it can be easy to focus on the major cities where refugees land and overlook the work at the border.
“In Poland, people think about the cities. They don’t think about the border,” he said. “But on border, [it’s where you] open the door, you get to say, ‘Good morning, welcome to Poland.’”
With all the pain Ukrainians are going through, some normalcy and acts of kindness can make the biggest difference, Nikolas said.
The Ongoing Effort
Convoy continues to serve alongside volunteers and partners towards its pledge to provide 50 million meals to Ukrainians affected by the war. Hundreds of thousands have been helped thanks to your generosity.
To continue supporting Ukrainians in need, you can donate here.
June 15, 2022 | 4 p.m.
It’s been four months since the life of every Ukrainian was turned upside down. And since the beginning of the conflict, Convoy of Hope has been doing everything possible to help those who are hurting.
The documentary below chronicles our efforts so far and highlights the courageous Ukrainians we’ve been blessed to serve.
June 9, 2022 | 2:55 p.m.
Ukrainian church pastor Aleksandr writes in a Facebook post, “Back again on the road …”
Church members of all ages lined up to load a van heading into Eastern Ukraine with Convoy of Hope relief kits for people on the front lines. Some smiled, holding up the bags to a camera.
In early May, a Ukrainian church delivered a van of Convoy kits to Ukrainians fighting for their country and to those living in bomb shelters. They distributed around 700 Convoy relief kits and took five trips’ worth to Ukrainian soldiers.
In the middle of so much suffering, these church members are providing hope to their neighbours. Their efforts provide a significant contribution to Convoy of Hope’s pledge to provide 50 million meals to Ukrainians affected by the war.
Some of the folks working with the church quit their jobs to provide transportation. Clad in helmets and bulletproof vests, they drove supplies to meet Ukrainians in need. With rising fuel prices in Europe, this is no small feat to pay for out of pocket.
Altogether, they have provided groceries, personal hygiene products, clothing — and most of all, hope.
Sadly, this situation is all too familiar to Aleksandr, as Ukraine faced a deadly armed conflict in 2014-16. But he said volunteering during that time helped prepare him to respond to this war.
“When you understand why you are doing this and realise that soldiers are there every day, you do what you can, hoping for God’s protection,” he said.
And their work isn’t over. This Ukrainian church continues to be a hub of hope for displaced people in need of supplies.
“We believe that God unites us for great service,” Aleksandr said.
Thank you for your continued support as Aleksandr’s church helps Convoy get supplies to Ukrainians amid the war.
June 2, 2022 | 4:30 p.m.
Convoy of Hope’s response to the war in Ukraine is now entering its fourth month. As needs have increased throughout Europe, so has the scale of Convoy’s response.
Convoy of Hope continues to serve Ukrainians who are displaced or in need throughout eight European countries. More than 6.8 million Ukrainians are sheltering in countries outside of their own. Meanwhile, as military clashes have moved east, approximately 2.2 million Ukrainians have re-entered their communities to assess the damage.
Earlier this week, Nila and Eduard Zelinska returned to a burnt-out shell of what they used to call home. Among the rubble sat a doll that once belonged to a grandchild of theirs.
“May there be peace on earth, peace so that our people are not suffering so much,” Nila told Associated Press reporters.
Tragically, some Ukrainians still remain trapped in war zones. As fighting continues near homes and makeshift shelters, many are pinned down with little access to food, water, electricity, and other necessities.
“One community where one of our partners delivered relief supplies in Ukraine hadn’t had anyone come with supplies for 30 days,” said Mackenzie Edwards of Convoy’s Disaster Services team. “Bridges into the community were totally destroyed, so they used logs, limbs, two-by-fours, and whatever they could find to build a makeshift bridge to get access into the community. Upon their arrival, they met people who survived on the juice from their pickled produce and fruit compote. The people were so grateful for the food because they had gone so long without any humanitarian aid.”
Convoy of Hope remains determined to provide at least 50 million meals to Ukrainians in need, in addition to other necessities like water, medical supplies, hygiene items, and sheltering supplies. Thank you for your support as Convoy continues to meet needs across Europe.
Food and relief supplies from Convoy of Hope are delivered in Ukraine.
April 8, 2022 | 11:45 a.m.
Convoy of Hope is providing relief for more than 125,000 refugees across eight countries in Europe, including Ukraine. An on-the-ground team in Romania is putting systems in place to help even more Ukrainians as they cross the border.
While the majority of refugees have fled to Poland, world leaders are predicting Romania may be the next country to receive an influx of people. Convoy teams are providing for these individuals while also using partnerships to move supplies from Romania into the heart of Ukraine.
Convoy of Hope team members work alongside partners in Romania to provide relief for Ukrainians.
“People fleeing the war are running from a desperate situation,” said Convoy of Hope’s David Vanderpool. “They need food, not just to be healthy but also to have hope. Food is one of the best forms of hope that we can have. When you have a full stomach, you can plan for the future.”
With the help of generous donors, Convoy of Hope has supplied refugees with tuna, beans, pasta, dehydrated potatoes, rice, tomato paste, canned meat, and cooking oil. These groceries are providing physical and emotional nourishment for people just trying to make it to tomorrow.
Some of the donations Convoy has received are being used to supply groups like Fight for Freedom, which is working with a network of pastors in Ukraine.
“Fight for Freedom started when the war started,” said David. “This center was originally built to help ex-convicts reintegrate back into society after prison, and now they are helping others in need. We either take supplies to a warehouse or we meet in parking lots to exchange from semitruck to semitruck, and then Fight for Freedom hauls it.”
Even though the journey is overwhelming and dangerous, Convoy is committed to helping Ukrainians as they navigate the sorrow that comes with war. The work continues thanks to generous donors and Convoy’s brave partners who are willing to help those in need, despite the risks.
April 4, 2022 | 1:35 p.m.
Convoy of Hope, along with courageous partners in Eastern Europe, is delivering relief supplies to survivors in Ukraine. Supplies include food, water, hygiene items, baby food, and mattresses. Since the start of the war, Convoy has served more than 101,000 Ukrainians.
As needs grow and conflict continues to unfold, so do the stories of open doors for Convoy of Hope to reach hurting people. Communities in Ukraine that are nearly impossible to reach are finding relief because of this response.
“After facing some significant logistical challenges related to the inbound product, God went before Convoy’s team, finalising paperwork and processes that normally take weeks in just a matter of hours,” one team member explained from Convoy’s warehouse in Poland. “This will significantly help our team to increase the amount of product going into Ukraine.”
The Associated Press reports seven people were killed and 34 wounded — including children — by shelling in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Ukrainian officials also reported the discovery of 410 civilian bodies in towns around Kyiv.
“Ukrainian people are enduring a living hell,” United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. “At the same time, we cannot lose hope.”
In recent days, several countries are starting to boycott Russian gas exports in an attempt to financially disable Russia. Until the war is over and in the time afterwards, Convoy of Hope is committed to helping as many people as possible for as long as possible.
Convoy of Hope can only respond in this capacity because of the generosity of donors and partners.
April 1, 2022 | 11 a.m.
Five weeks and counting, and there is no end in sight. Russian forces continue to pound areas around Ukraine’s capital and other populous cities. Convoy of Hope’s response has grown alongside the volume of refugees moving across multiple borders into safety.
Despite the constant conflict, Convoy’s teams are bringing relief to Ukrainians on their darkest days. Through the generosity of donors and partners around the world, Convoy continues to provide food, water, mattresses, baby food, shelter, hygiene items, emergency lighting, and generators to refugees across eight countries.
According to the Associated Press, Russian forces attacked portions of Ukraine just hours after pledging to scale back operations in those same areas. Ukrainian officials said Russian shelling hit homes, shops, libraries, and other civilian infrastructure in the northern city of Chernihiv and on the outskirts of Kyiv.
Convoy’s warehouses in Ukraine, Poland, and Romania are distributing life-sustaining supplies as soon as they come in — most of which have been purchased through partners in Eastern Europe.
Convoy is thankful for the donors and partners who have made this response possible. Thank you for helping Convoy help others.
March 13, 2022 | 10:15 p.m.
Though the influx of refugees pouring over Ukraine’s border into neighbouring countries has slowed since the war’s first weeks, the situation remains desperate for millions. Conflict has continued to edge closer to Poland and other countries on Ukraine’s westernmost border. Convoy of Hope continues to provide aid for refugees alongside many other individuals looking for ways to help.
“I am very grateful to you,” one refugee said after volunteering to help Convoy prepare a distribution centre. “I am very glad that we are together, [that] we are able to be here and help.”
Shortly after Convoy of Hope secured a warehouse for storing relief supplies, refugees in Poland pitched in to prepare the space. Although many had little more than a suitcase to their name, they gave what they did have: time and goodwill.
“Thank God for Convoy of Hope,” another Ukrainian said while cleaning the warehouse. “This is an organization that really takes care of people. They really cry — they are with us. They went with us to the border. They aren’t only financing and giving clothes. They are worried about us and it is a blessing for Ukraine. May God bless you all.”
Many who have been affected by the war have found ways to give back. Rental properties, cafes, and churches have transformed into makeshift shelters throughout Ukraine and Poland. Several once-trendy restaurants in Ukraine have become kitchens to provide nutritious meals to hospitals and displaced people.
One local organization began partnering with Convoy to provide food and water to refugees as they cross the border. Because of this partnership, the organization now feeds thousands of refugees each day.
Olga Romanchuk was one of many looking for a way to serve after the war began. “I felt that I wanted to help, but I couldn’t bear arms,” she told The Kyiv Independent. “I thought, I can cut potatoes — everyone can.” Olga now works with an IT specialist, a chemist, and several others from various backgrounds who make and deliver food to those in need.
“We still should not give up hope. Don’t give up! You must believe! You must live,” another Ukrainian told other refugees while volunteering alongside Convoy team members.
Thanks to supporters like you, Convoy of Hope’s team members and partners in Europe continue to provide emergency relief and shelter for refugees in addition to unloading pallets of supplies for distribution in Ukraine.
Convoy is grateful for those who — like many currently in desperate need — continue to give what they can to provide for those who need it most. To support this response and others like it, click here.
March 12, 2022 | 4:45 p.m.
Bombings and other attacks reached further west as the week came to a close. Many Ukrainians who thought they were outside of harm’s way are now questioning whether their distance from Russia’s border has any bearing on their safety. As the war displaces more civilians, Convoy of Hope is finding additional ways to provide emergency relief in six European countries, including Ukraine.
Convoy of Hope sent another team of relief workers from its global headquarters to assist teams and partners already in Europe. Though inventory from many Polish companies is starting to run low as the influx of refugees weighs on the nation’s supply chain, Convoy of Hope’s partners and supporters have created new opportunities to help those currently in need.
Two truckloads of relief supplies were loaded at Convoy of Hope’s World Distribution Centere on Friday morning. Airlink, a nonprofit partnering with Convoy for this crisis response, donated their services to provide transportation of 60 pallets of relief supplies, which will arrive in Europe to support refugees.
“The stories that Ukrainians are telling when they come over the border are getting increasingly worse every day,” said Chris Dudley of Convoy’s Disaster Services team. “The other night, over 20,000 people came through one border crossing alone during the overnight hours. A lot of people have the ‘thousand-yard stare’ when they come across the border into Poland. This war will have an impact on the Ukrainian people for generations.”
Residents of Ivano-Frankivsk, a city near Ukraine’s westernmost border, received orders to stay in air raid shelters on Friday. Meanwhile, officials worked to establish 12 new humanitarian corridors to allow additional refugees safe passage out of war zones and into other countries.
“We are dealing with the greatest migration crisis in the history of Europe since World War II,” Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski of Warsaw told The Associated Press. “The situation is getting more and more difficult every day.”
Warsaw’s mayor sent out an appeal for international help as more and more refugees pour into Poland’s capital. More than a tenth of all Ukrainians who fled their country are now in Warsaw.
Temperatures in Ukraine dipped into the single digits, causing even more concern for those currently without shelter, electricity, and basic necessities. Those huddling together in subway stations and other makeshift shelters are now beginning to worry about the spread of COVID-19 as well.
“I know of people who have tested positive since spending nights in the bomb shelters and on packed trains,” one relief worker said. “It’s not as big of a concern as a bomb or missile, but an added concern for sure.”
More than 2.5 million refugees have now fled Ukraine. More than 1.5 million of them are in Poland. The majority are women and children.
Thank you for partnering with Convoy to provide relief and hope to those who desperately need it.
March 11, 2022 | 6 p.m.
Irina is dressed in all pink — pink hat, coat, scarf, pants, and boots. She stands out from the many Ukrainian refugees, most of whom are bundled tight in shades of black and gray.
“The thing you feel for the first three days [after leaving] is relief. You don’t hear bombing. Your child is safe,” said Irina as she spoke with a Convoy of Hope team member. “But then it passes and sadness comes. Such sadness that you understand [your old] life will never return.”
Just days before, Irina worked in the import and export business. With tears in her eyes, she is unsure of what to expect from life in Poland. “You fall asleep with these thoughts and wake up. You do not know how to continue living.”
Irina is separated from her family — her husband required by the Ukrainian government to stay and fight near the border with Belarus. The two of them talk every 2 to 3 hours to make sure they and their children are alive.
When asked about her pink outfit, Irina’s answer was surprising. “Yesterday, when I looked at everyone, they were in black. My whole life I [have] hated pink. My whole life. My daughter was never dressed in pink. Never. [Now] it is my desire — the desire to be happy and [not] give up.”
Irina hates pink, but she chose to wear her resilience with colour. Her face is determined. She radiates the kind of hope that only comes to the surface under horrific circumstances.
“Belief is a feeling that God will never forsake me and my country. I have to believe in this. I have no other choice,” said Irina.
February 25, 2022 | 10 a.m.
Photo above: Police officers inspect an area after an apparent Russian strike in Kyiv Ukraine, Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a military operation in Ukraine and warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences you have never seen.” (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)
Convoy of Hope is actively reaching out to local partners to find ways to help Ukrainians amidst attacks from Russia.
Early Thursday morning, Russia declared war on Ukraine. Soldiers and tanks crossed over Ukraine’s border while airstrikes and other explosives hit targets in several major cities, including Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv.
“We woke up in a different world today,” German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock told reporters after the attack began.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has already reported hundreds of fatalities, just hours after the initial declaration. Early strikes targeted airports and Ukraine’s military bases. Residents woke up to air raid sirens in multiple cities, including Kyiv.
“There’s nowhere to run. All Ukraine is exploding,” one Ukrainian woman told The New York Times.
Through partnership across Europe, Convoy of Hope has worked diligently in Ukraine since 2014, alleviating suffering in and around the nation.
Convoy’s International Disaster Services team is actively trying to make contact with partners in affected areas. Please keep Ukraine in your prayers and continue to stand with Ukrainians who are suffering.
