Brothers head to Ukraine to support children traumatised by war

David and Duncan Hamilton have raised £20,000 ahead of taking their specialised vehicle to the war-torn nation

Author: Jessica MatthewsonPublished 11th Jun 2023

Two Edinburgh brothers are heading to Ukraine today (Monday 12th June) , driving a specialist vehicle that will be used to support children traumatised by the war.

David and Duncan Hamilton have volunteered with Edinburgh Direct Aid to raise £20,000 to assist with the costs of upgrading and transporting the vehicle and to support orphanages and shelters with supplies.

They currently have over half of the ambitious target but are looking for a final push to reach dreamed total.

David returned from Ukraine just two weeks ago but is raring to embark on his fourth mission to the country.

Duncan has previous experience working with NGOs in areas such as Georgia and Kosovo. He volunteered himself when he learned his brother was looking for a co-driver.

The vehicle has been described by David as a “mobile office” which will provide trauma therapy and music therapy. The van has also been fitted with disabled access making it even more helpful in delivering urgent care to all.

The Ukrainian children, many of whom are orphans, have been ‘internally displaced’ and left traumatised by what they have experienced.

The vehicle will be operating in areas where flood evacuees from Kherson have been taken.

Duncan said, ‘I am very much looking forward to working with EDA in their outstanding efforts to provide assistance to the people of Ukraine. We really hope this kind of practical help, working with a local Ukrainian charity, can make a difference. The fact David and I can do it together makes it even more special because it allows me to share for the first time what has been a passion of his for over 30 years.”

David added, “There is something special about doing a trip like this with your brother and I’m very proud that he’s been so keen to come along. Ukrainians have a strong belief in family and I’m sure they will appreciate this connection.

We still have more money to raise though so if you can assist, please do so”

You can find out more here.

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