UKRAINE Assistance

May be worth pointing out that for the first time even the EU/EEA/CH are issuing special visas for Ukrainian refugees which entitle them to work and full access to a public and social services. So if you are in a position to offer employment or recommend someone to a business as a potential employee, note that the red tap is minimal.

Absolutely agree Jim and James. Maintaining dignity for all refugees is important. But language is proving a problem. My husband's barber in France wanted to hire two Ukrainian women, but they can't speak or understand.

Demand to learn is high: a friend taught a first French class last Monday with 7 Ukrainians, by Friday she had 40.

But we know what they really want and need: reunite their families, rebuild their homes, and rebuild their country asap.

Jim, I believe right now there is a 90 limit before they have to go through the normal channels, but I may be mistaken. My guests seem to believe this.

After the news of today I would suggest you dig deep to help put an end to it sooner than later.

No one here should think things are over.

I'm glad that this crisis has inspired people to help refugees. I hope that the inspiration extends to other groups that already exist in Europe and to future groups.

Sincerely,
A professional refugee worker since 1995

Travelmom, things are more horrible than the news in the US can or will detail. There isn't one norm, even in war, that hasn't been crossed and crossed to unimaginable degrees. The only comfort is seeing that giving has turned to an amateur pursuit with individuals giving time and money and materials. Is reassuring to see and I hope it becomes so routine that it continues in this and elsewhere.

I know, James. And I do read news from other sources than just U.S. coverage, but not nearly as extensively as you.

Emily, I can only imagine that this is hard for you, when you have seen other responses (or lack thereof) in the past. I also know people who are working with the refugees in Vienna (who don’t look like us) but not professionally, so I have been able to see a tiny bit of what is going on there. I am sure the story is much the same across many cities. Hopefully this teaches us to open our eyes and hearts (and wallets) more.

TravelMom - I was the director of a refugee resettlement office in DFW for many years. There are plenty of refugees in your area as well.

"...things are more horrible than the news in the US will detail" .....so very true. "They" are not just waging war, "they" are committing murder.

Travelmom; there are a couple of children charities in Ukraine, 100% volunteer run. They recruit foreign nationals (like me .. and you) to come for 2 week spells to assist. For the privilege, and it is a privilege, the volunteers have to pay a fee and that fee feeds the stomachs of the kids. No, its not unique there, they are just the organizations I am personally familiar with. It is a beautiful model where 100% of the contributions in time and money go into the stomachs of the kids. Even the organizers and promoters are volunteer. I would love it if someone would expand on the concept for the rebuilding in Ukraine. Who would be better in making the decisions on the allocation of funds for rebuilding but people who are experts in their fields with years and years and years of experience. Of course I am a dreamer. The current mainstream system will be the mainstay for obvious reasons.

Fred, "murder" is an understatement. I am so angry I am shaking.

James, I will get back to you for information once Ukraine is ready.

I have plans to visit in late June.

I grew up with these guys. My G-d they have gotten old, but they still have it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saEpkcVi1d4 These guys hadn't played together since I think 2004 or 2005

I really hope you make it in June. I hope lots of people make it there in June. When it’s possible, my first stop is a trail ride (for real) in Odesa.

And I had heard the Boombox singer before, but not with the addition of Pink Floyd. :)

I like Emily’s idea that in addition to supporting charities in the Ukraine with our money, we can also be involved close to home. There are lots of opportunities to support and befriend refugees in my area. I tutor at a program for 6-12th graders once a week. Others help connect refugees with services. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to be a friend to someone who needs one. As usual, I am positive I gain much more from this experience than I give.