Eden District Council is lighting up Penrith Town Hall in yellow and blue – the colours of the Ukrainian flag – to show its support for the people of Ukraine during the Russian invasion.
Virginia Taylor, leader of Eden District Council, said: “I express my full support and solidarity to the Ukrainian people and to our peers in local and regional government.
“Here in Eden we have residents from Ukraine and other countries who will be fearful for their homelands, and I would like to reassure them that they are welcome here and we hope to continue to share the safety that Eden is lucky enough to enjoy.”
Russia’s violent and illegal occupation of Ukraine has been condemned by the British Government and the wider international community. Russia’s actions are leading to the displacement of large numbers of Ukrainian families, leaving many without a home. In this time of crisis, the people of Ukraine need as much help as they can get.
An important way people in Eden can contribute is by donating to charities providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Different charities focus on different forms of support, ranging from providing medical supplies to supporting refugees displaced by the conflict. There are a number of charities that are providing support.
The British Red Cross has launched an urgent appeal to help Ukraine and is currently taking donations for the country’s support. The charity is working with the Ukrainian Red Cross Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross to support people affected by the conflict.
Donations go towards food, water, first aid, medicines, warm clothes and shelter. Donate here: donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-crisis-appeal
UNICEF is working across eastern Ukraine to deliver life-saving programmes for children as well as deliver safe drinking water in areas heavily impacted by the conflict. Donate here: unicef.org/ukraine/en/donate-now
The UN Refugee Agency is working with local authorities and other partners in Ukraine to provide humanitarian assistance when needed. Donate here: donate.unrefugees.org.uk
United Help Ukraine is a charity that focuses on providing humanitarian aid while also raising awareness of the current conflict. Donate here: www.unitedhelpukraine.org
Polish Shop Dino stores can be found in Maryport, Carlisle and Dumfries, and are accepting donations for people fleeing from the Russian invasion of the country. Suggested donations include bedding, clothes, baby clothes, nappies, toys and dry food products. Find out more: Polish Shop Dino Carlisle
