A PROJECT has launched an urgent winter appeal to continue delivering vital aid directly from north Essex to the war-ravaged country.

The Harwich Ukraine Support Project (HUSP) has delivered more than 260 tonnes of blankets, food, clothing and medical supplies to struggling communities in Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022.

To coincide with Ukraine marking 1,000 days since the outbreak of full-scale war, the launch of the winter appeal recognises the increasingly dire situation as the country faces a third winter with much depleted energy resources after Russia’s targeted attacks.

The appeal aims to deliver at least another 20 tonnes of vital aid by the end of the year to help Ukraine through the winter.

Family - A baby, mother, and grandmother in the Chernihiv Maternity Hospital in March 2024 with a carrier cot as distributed by the Harwich Ukraine Support Project Family - A baby, mother, and grandmother in the Chernihiv Maternity Hospital in March 2024 with a carrier cot as distributed by the Harwich Ukraine Support Project (Image: Newsquest) Tony Elliston is HUSP leader and chair of the project’s parent organisation Harwich Cultural and Community Projects.

He said: “The project is not without its challenges but the incredible team of volunteers we have supporting us with sorting and packing, driving vehicles on aid conveys and in our high street donation point and charity shop - as well as all of the people who have donated to the project already - they have all been crucial in getting this much-needed aid to so many people affected by this terrible war.  

“With the support of our volunteers and donors we have been able to deliver over 250 tonnes of aid already, but sadly while the war continues, so too does the need for aid.

“This winter we are appealing for the local community to come together in supporting us in any way that they can, so we can continue to help those so desperately in need.”

Donations - Harwich Ukraine Support Project carrier cots in the Chernihiv maternity hospital in March 2024Donations - Harwich Ukraine Support Project carrier cots in the Chernihiv maternity hospital in March 2024 (Image: SOH) There are a number of ways to support the appeal, including volunteering. 

Blankets, duvets, warm adult clothing, baby clothes, medical supplies and cash donations to cover transport costs are also wanted.

Donations can be brought to the Harwich Ukraine Support Project shop on Harwich High Street or to the Harwich Space, on Stour Road.

Collections can be arranged for people with mobility issues.

Businesses and residential streets are also being encouraged to set up collection points, while those wanting to make financial contributions can visit JustGiving.com/Harwich.ccp.

To find out more email Tony.Elliston@harwichccp.com