'We just want to do something', how the West Country is coming together for Ukraine
A vigil for peace is being held by Exeter Cathedral tonight, with a truck stop offering free food and people encouraged to donate to charity
Last updated 1st Mar 2022
From a vigil tonight to free food for Ukrainian truck drivers, the West Country continues to find ways to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
The hour-long vigil will begin outside the Cathedral’s main West Front entrance at 6pm, before moving into the nave.
The Very Reverend Jonathan Greener, Dean of Exeter, said: "The gathering is open for anyone to join and is intended as an opportunity for the communities of Devon to come together in prayer, for all who are affected by the conflict.
Smileys Cafe, near to the Blackdown Hills, is offering free food to Ukrainian truck drivers
“We encourage anyone feeling confusion, anxiety or despair as a result of the shocking events in Ukraine to come and be with us here in Exeter.
"We’ll be part of a much bigger call to pray for peace in Ukraine, led by the Anglican Diocese of Europe.”
Simon Friend, General Synod Representative for the Diocese of Exeter, addded: “We all feel a sense of longing to know what we can do for all those who seek peace in Ukraine and Russia and around the world.
"This is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine at this time – to keep watch and to pray. Please do join us.”
It comes as free food is being offered to Ukrainian drivers by a cafe on the A30 in Devon
Luke Pollard, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, is encouraging people in Plymouth to donate to a charities to support the humanitarian crisis if they can. Â
The United Nations Refugee Agency says that more than 100,000 Ukrainians have already been forced to flee their homes since Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February, with residential buildings, power stations and children’s play-centres already the target of military bombing. Â
There are a number of charity organisations providing vital humanitarian support in the country, Luke recommends the British Red Cross’s Ukraine Appeal, the United Nations’ Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, and Save the Children’s Ukraine Crisis Fund. These organisations are distributing essential humanitarian aid, providing food and shelter, and supporting children to overcome the psychological trauma of war.
The three charities Luke is recommending donations for are:
The British Red Cross, accepting donations to its Ukraine fund
The U.N., accepting donations to its Ukraine fund
Save the Children, accepting donations to its Ukraine Fund