Cornwall aid charity sends team to eastern Europe to help fleeing refugees
Truro-based ShelterBox is working to understand what emergency shelter they might need
Last updated 3rd Mar 2022
A Cornwall disaster relief charity has confirmed it is sending a team to eastern Europe in the wake of Russian's invasion of Ukraine.
Truro-based ShelterBox says this will be to understand the type of emergency shelter people fleeing Ukraine need, if its aid will be suitable, and which locations it might be able to work in.
It is co-ordinating with local authorities, Rotary and other aid organisations to make sure as many people as possible will receive the help they need.
The move comes as the UN says one million people have fled Ukraine since the start of the invasion.
ShelterBox says it is deeply concerned for the families leaving their homes in below freezing temperatures, saying those fleeing must be able to do so safely.
ShelterBox Chief Executive, Sanj Srikanthan says: "We are witnessing a vast humanitarian crisis unfold. With every hour that passes more and more people are fleeing Ukraine, desperately seeking safety and refuge.
"Hundreds of thousands of people have already crossed Ukraine’s borders and that number is rising quickly as the situation continues to deteriorate.
"The indications are that this will not be a short conflict.
"ShelterBox is responding and sending a team to the region who will be positioned to inform how we respond and coordinate our work".
ShelterBox says humanitarian access must be maintained throughout the conflict-affected areas so that the people who need support can find it.
The charity has described the situation as "unprecedented and rapidly changing", but says it is committed to supporting Ukrainian families as it continues to support those in places like Yemen, Syria, and Cameroon.