The Apostolic Society in Hoogeveen has taken action to help Ukrainians through the winter. Russian rocket attacks have cut power in parts of the country and left people without heating. And it will get even colder in the coming weeks.
A collection was held, mainly for items that people can use to keep themselves warm, such as sleeping bags, blankets and thick coats. The action was last weekend, but it was a storm and the organization received so many responses that it was decided to hold an extra collection today.
“Five winter coats for children and a sleeping bag,” says a woman who comes to bring things with her son. “I don’t think we realize how good we have it here in the Netherlands. The Ukrainian people also did not expect to end up in this situation. That is why we are happy to give up what we can afford.”
A couple also comes by to deliver warm things. “A thick blanket, a double, and some sheets. They came from the attic and we don’t need them anymore.”
Louise Brink of the Apostolic Society is impressed. “We never expected so much stuff. It came from all sides. Sweaters that were knitted and sleeping bags that were even bought new. It is unprecedented. We lost count. People are in the dark and the cold after all the attacks, then I have you need everything to protect you from the winter weather.”
The collected goods will be sorted tomorrow in Zwolle, after which they will go directly to Ukraine.