MEMBERS of Bromsgrove Ukrainian Support and Relief (BUSAR) have set off in two HGVs filled with 15tonnes worth of aid as they continue their quest to support those suffering in the war-torn country.
The group began their journey on Wednesday and will be hoping to offload supplies over the weekend so they can make their way to Ukraine for Christmas.
Set up by a small group of volunteers earlier this year, the group took over a van load of supplies to Poland and Ukraine back in March.
They have since completed three trips, delivering food, clothing, medicines and over 30 maternity cots, while other newborn care includes baby food and clothing.
The supplies have been delivered to hospitals across Ukraine with every unit ensuring babies are cared for up to three months.
The group gives supplies to young people who then load them into smaller vans and drive them into Ukraine and they receive updates on progress, including being sent videos of the supply vehicles dodging Russian tanks.
James Bennett, from BUSAR, said: “Receiving those updates allows us to see the impact our journeys are having but it also shows us the reality of what so many people are going through in Ukraine.
“People have been really good in Bromsgrove – every time we’ve hosted fundraisers they have donated so generously and local businesses have been phenomenal – it’s been a real community effort.”
A garden party was held in Bromsgrove back in June which brought together Ukrainian refugees and their host families, which allowed them to form a community and begin supporting each other.
And BUSAR plans to spread a helping of Christmas cheer for Ukrainian families living in Bromsgrove with a party full of fun, food and children’s entertainment.
James added: “We all just want this terrible war to end, when I’ve spoken to Ukrainians they’re so impressive and resolute and they’re adamant they’ll go back and help rebuild when this war is over.
“There’s currently only five of us in BUSAR but we’re going to continue to raise as much as we can to continue our trips for as long as it’s needed.”
Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/busar to donate to BUSAR.
