Deluge of donations in the Derg for Ukrainian refugees

A CASTLEDERG business man has outlined his shock and surprise after a shout-out for emergency supplies to help Ukrainian refugees resulted in a deluge of donations.

Gareth Sproule from Ezi Eggs made the appeal last week after a friend from Lisburn, Colin Tinsley, who happened to be in Poland when Russia invaded Ukraine, decided to stay on and help refugees fleeing the war.

“Colin is already in Poland,” Gareth explained.

“He does children’s camps and he had just completed three and was due to come home. Now, he’s staying on and working with the Polish contacts to deal with the crisis.

“Originally, we were going to get a van to transport any supplies that would be donated, but now we’re going to need a container. This’ll be heading off at the weekend. We’re not just sure of the logistics yet because it has blown up much more than we expected.”

As well as appealing for everyday items to help the refugees such as toothbrushes; toothpaste; soap; pillows; blankets; shoes; and clothes, Gareth remarked that Colin is also taking financial donations through his Go Fund Me page, ‘Helping Ukrainians taking refuge in Poland’.

At the time of going to press, an astonishing total of £61,851 had already been raised.

“It’s just brilliant,” Gareth enthused. “I just had a church from Letterkenny onto me this morning looking to donate. I never expected it to be as big as it is; I was surprised. The local sports clubs are gathering stuff, clothes and products. Killen Primary School and the Church of Ireland are also gathering bits and pieces. No doubt, there is a massive need for stuff.

“The news at the moment is hard-hitting.

“It really makes you think about the humanitarian impact this war is having on people. You really feel pity for the people.”

After today (Thursday), the container of donations will travel to Lisburn, and from there, plans will be put in place for it to be transported to Poland for distribution.