As the invasion of Ukraine continues, the world watches in shock and horror. Russia’s full-scale war is now a humanitarian catastrophe. Countries have responded by placing sanctions on Russia and sending ammunition and weapons to Ukraine’s military, while companies have halted business in Russia and made donations to help the innocent and brave people of Ukraine.
Apple and Intel have paused all sales in Russia and will stop exports into the country, Nike is shutting down stores, and IKEA is closing outlets in both Russia and Belarus. Netflix has paused new projects in Russia while Oracle and Cisco suspended all operations.
There are now over three million refugees who have fled their homes in pursuit of safety in Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, and other neighboring countries. The United Nations estimates that close to 10 million will soon be displaced, leading to an even greater humanitarian crisis.
If you’re wondering how you can help the people of Ukraine, consider donating to these organizations:
GlobalGiving Ukraine Relief Fund – GlobalGiving is using all donations to support humanitarian assistance to impacted communities in Ukraine, as well as the surrounding regions where refugees have fled. Donating to the cause will provide basic necessities such as shelter, food, clean water, including health, psychosocial support, access to education and economic assistance and more.
UNICEF – UNICEF is supporting children and families caught in conflict in Ukraine by providing educational support, psychosocial support, emergency supplies, and access to safe water. The organization announced it has scaled up its programs following the invasion. Catherine Russell, UNICEF executive director, said the intensifying violence in Ukraine posed immediate threats to the lives and wellbeing of the country’s 7.5 million children.
Save the Children – Save the Children provides life-saving aid to children around the world and has already helped more than 400,000 children caught in the crossfire of this war.
International Rescue Committee – The International Rescue Committee is committed to helping families evacuate out of conflicted areas, including Ukraine. The IRC is currently in Poland supporting displaced children and families with vital supplies.