COMMUNITIES in the Post area have been overwhelmingly generous in response to the refugee crisis in Ukraine.

And one Holsworthy man at the centre of a local appeal wants to thank all who have given goods, money, time and transport to help those fleeing from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Paul Stoate said: “Because of my connections to Ukraine, having worked there for eight years and having many friends and colleagues there, my youngest son Joseph, who owns The Den coffee shop in Holsworthy, decided along with the rest of the family to do something practical to help both the besieged population and refugees fleeing to Poland, Romania and other Eastern European countries.

“One of our colleagues had to remain in the UK as the invasion started before she could return home. She and I have apartments in Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine, which at the moment is being bombed continuously. Her son and his family are still there. There is a real humanitarian crisis not seen since the Second World War.

“We have sent two van loads to Poland already, and another two loads are planned to go this week [March 7] with Richard Easterbrook in Barnstaple. These are the goods you have so generously donated, but this will be an ongoing need.”

Paul thanked the volunteers who manned the shop helping to sort and load the goods, and of course, the donors — individuals, churches, and businesses. Within two days of launching the operation, three rooms at The Den had been filled thanks to a constant stream of people calling with practical help, medical, baby and sanitary goods, new blankets, torches, toiletries, sleeping bags and batteries.  

“It’s impossible to name and thank you all,” said Paul. “But you know who you are. Our special thanks go to Lou at the Refill Shop in Bude who coordinated two van loads which went to Barnstaple, and for spreading the word.”

Thanks too were given to Polish lorry driver Tomasz Palonka, who has been collecting for the refugees, and arrived in Holsworthy Square last Wednesday morning from his home in Newquay to pick up donations en route to the Polish-Ukraine border.

Paul also thanked The Rydon Arms and Holsworthy and Bude Methodist Churches for the use of their rooms for storage; those who offered storage space and accommodation, and especially Emma Cox and her trusty van, without whom many goods could not have been transported. 

Local people, businesses and churches have also been generous with goods, and financial donations, which will go towards fuel and haulage costs. 

Paul’s Ukrainian colleague, Lara Davidenko, has been receiving scores of messages of gratitude from friends and family in Ukraine. Paul added: “Please, we need your continued support. No matter what you give, it is gratefully received by desperate people, mainly women and children at the border.”

There is an ongoing need for supplies such as SMA baby milk, nappies, wet wipes and sanitary products. Paul said: “I know that local communities have given so much but please continue to help if you are able. We can’t stop the war, but we can give some comfort to its victims. The depth of generosity on display has been breathtaking and humbling, and we can’t thank you enough.”

For more information on drop-off points, lists of requirements, etcetera, Paul’s email is [email protected] or call him on 07989 396692

There is also a ‘Holsworthy Collections for Ukraine’ Facebook page. To find out more visit www.facebook.com/HCO4U