A Bristol charity is seeking help to aid war-affected children in Ukraine. The Bristol-based charity formerly known as Chernobyl Children's LifeLine has issued an urgent appeal for support.
Having dedicated three decades to organising respite holidays in the UK for Ukrainian and Belarusian children affected by the devastating aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, the charity had to swiftly redirect its efforts towards providing emergency aid when war broke out in Ukraine.
In a recent development, the charity has joined forces with the local council in Myrcha, a Ukrainian village situated approximately 60 miles northwest of Kyiv. Myrcha, home to around 130 children, has a sole educational institution encompassing both a school and a kindergarten. These buildings also serve as the village's primary medical care centre and ambulance point.
During the period from February to May 2022, Myrcha and its surrounding region fell under the occupation of Russian forces. The village endured extensive bombings, shelling, and witnessed tank battles in its vicinity. Over 1,200 individuals sought refuge in Myrcha during this time, having escaped from nearby villages or the neighboring town of Borodyanka, which was embroiled in some of the most severe fighting.
As the Russian forces retreated, the school and kindergarten in Myrcha suffered looting, resulting in the loss of all equipment, and significant damage rendered the buildings largely unusable. The village hastily constructed a rudimentary bomb shelter, offering only basic amenities such as benches, two bio-toilets, and a small wood-fired stove for lighting and heating. Presently, all students aged three to eighteen receive their education within this shelter. Despite Ukrainian forces reclaiming control over the area, the situation remains highly volatile, with frequent missile and drone attacks.
The charity has embarked on providing essential emergency equipment, including generators, LED lighting, and proper heating to the village. Additionally, a Wi-Fi hub, laptops, and printers are being supplied to facilitate the children's education. With the new school year commencing on September 1, the charity aims to have this equipment in place by then. Future endeavors involve restoring the school buildings and establishing a Psychological Support Unit within the Kindergarten, aimed at helping the children cope with the traumas endured during the war.
James Hyden, from CCLL, The Helping Hand for Ukraine, said: “We appreciate times are hard at the moment, but could you give up a couple of coffees or make some other small sacrifice to help the children of Myrcha?
“Why not have one pint less, get your nails done less frequently, or skip that take away for just one week? This is the kind of project where small donations really can make a huge difference. Your contributions will help bring light into children's lives during these very dark times. Thank you for your support.”
To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/page/ccll-myrcha-ukraine
