We are all deeply saddened by what is happening in Ukraine and our hearts go out to all the people suffering in this conflict, no matter what their passport says.
We stand with Ukraine. We condemn violence. We pray for peace.
Immediate Actions – How You Can Help Right Now
(Status: Tuesday, 8 March 22)
- Keep yourself informed about the security situation on the ground and in the neighboring countries.
- Ensure that you are mentally ready to support others and feel free to reach out to Angie if you wish to talk. The best way to reach her right now is through her mobile phone.
- Provide a shower or room: In Switzerland, organizations such as Campax are looking for accommodation and families who have spare rooms to take in refugees for now. Being able to have a shower and stay for one night is better than nothing. Also, the Swiss cantonal authorities are setting up accommodation and you can check your local migration office if you have families and friends who need a new home or place to stay.
- Employ a refugee. According to our research Ukrainian refugees will be allowed to work in Switzerland with an S status within 3 months. In the European Union, many countries will allow them to work right away. Check this site for a Q & A on the situation in Switzerland.
- Hold a fundraiser at your workplace and ask your employer to match donations. The ICRC has great programs your employer can support and financial aid helps fast in this situation.
- Support grass-roots actions. Our friend Birger Oldorff is providing transportation to vulnerable refugees through Human-Plus, a German non-profit. https://human-plus.de/en/ +4921531397263 info@human-plus.org.
- Consider what you share on social media right now. We provide guidance on Digital Media Literacy here in this post.
- Volunteer your time as you have great skills and knowledge to help. We love this resource for example: HRforUkraine
- Be kind to others who might be going through trauma, anxiety, have to take care of families and friends, even if you don’t know how affected they are.
- Offer your ears and hearts to people. Some people feel better if they can talk or chat with someone. Offer your support via social media or through your direct contacts.
- Decorate your house with a peace flag.
- Share important phone numbers on Twitter and Facebook. Many refugees are confused and not sure who to contact for help. This site by the ICRC is really helpful.
DONATION MATCHING GLOBAL PEOPLE TRANSITIONS
**Global People for Global People**
We will match donations to the ICRC until 20 March 2022. If you aren’t employed right now, you can send us your donation receipt and we will collect all donations and match them up to CHF 10k.
We’re not sure what to do if we raise more, but we will update you. 🙂
Donations and Fundraising
Here are things you should consider:
- Does the relief charity meet Better Business Bureau charity standards?
- Can the charity get to the impacted area?
- Not all charities have the resources to provide relief to Ukraine as quickly as necessary. It would be wise to check and see if the charity already has a presence in Ukraine or another eastern European country.
- We advise against sending clothing. They could create logistical challenges to deliver to Ukraine (and bordering countries). They also often create a lot of extra waste if they cannot be used immediately.
- Check if the charity experienced in providing emergency relief.
Experienced in disaster relief and recommended:
Red Cross (ICRC – and national committees)
UNICEF (and any other UN branch such as the UNHCR or the World Food Programm)
