In times of tragedy, there is a natural instinct to help.
But sometimes those good intentions can prove inefficient, even fruitless.
From the moment Russian military units crossed the Ukrainian borders in an unprovoked attack on Feb. 24, people all over the world started efforts to come to the aid of the people of Ukraine. But not every group that is raising funds may have the infrastructure and resources such an urgent situation requires. Sadly, there are others who may misappropriate or mismanage donations.
Those who wish to make sure their donations are used for the intended purpose are wise to donate through well-established organizations such as the Red Cross. Here in the Golden Triangle we have another organization whose unique relationship with the people of Ukraine makes it an excellent way to help.
Kathy Cadden founded Operation Ukraine in 1999 to provide aid to people in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. For 22 years now, her group has been sending medical supplies/equipment, clothing and personal items into Ukraine.
Over the course of those years, Operation Ukraine has built long-term relationships with Ukrainian volunteers and mastered the often-complex logistics of quickly and efficiently providing aid in crisis situations.
The credibility established with the people of Ukraine and donors here in our area is an assurance that every donation, be it supplies or cash, goes to the intended target.
Because of Operation Ukraine’s long history in providing aid to Ukraine, few organizations are better prepared to send immediate aid.
In fact, Operation Ukraine has already sent two cargo containers of supplies to Poland. Volunteers there have secured warehouse space and apartments for Ukrainian refugees. Some of the supplies will be taken into Ukraine for those who are unable or unwilling to leave their homes.
Cadden said that Operation Ukraine has four more cargo containers ready to send. The cost of transporting a cargo container to Poland is $10,000. Cadden said her group is in desperate need of money to transport those containers.
Tax-deductible donations can be made payable to Operation Ukraine and mailed to Operation Ukraine, P.O. Box 411, Columbus, MS 39703.
Those who would like to make donations of personal and family items to be sent on later shipments should visit the Operation Ukraine Facebook page.
We believe our community, like people across the globe, will respond to this crisis. Here in the Golden Triangle, Operation Ukraine is an efficient means of providing that help.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 38 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
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