LI groups supporting Ukraine during Russian invasion seek donations
A gathering at Babylon Town Hall in Lindenhurst Saturday expresses support for the people of Ukraine in response to Russian invasion of Ukraine. Credit: Newsday/Steve Pfost
Long Islanders are coming together to collect donations to help the people of Ukraine with basic supplies and clothing during Russia's invasion.
Nassau Legis. Joshua Lafazan (D-Woodbury), who is hosting a community drive Thursday, said the invasion has "created a need for emergency assistance to surrounding areas accepting refugees. It is critical that members of the Long Island community do our part in donating what we can to aid vulnerable people in this pivotal point in history."
Since letting Lindenhurst residents know through social media how they can donate at her local church, Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church in Lindenhurst, organizer Suzie Bolger said she has been overwhelmed by the support.
"Everybody is trying to organize and clean out their closet," Bolger said. "I’ve seen the community give back so many times. This all fell into place."
Since the invasion, refugees from Ukraine have fled toward the borders of Hungary, Romanian, Slovakia.
The United Nations Refugee Agency said on Twitter Monday that more than 500,000 refugees have left Ukraine. In Kyiv, the capital, residents including children have sought shelter from their homes, going underground into subway stations.
Below is a list of organizations accepting donations to help.
- Lafazan's community supply drive is being done in partnership with the Woodbury Jewish Center on 200 Southwoods Rd. in Woodbury on Thursday. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., clothing and personal supplies will be accepted, as well as household items.
- St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church at 820 Pond View Rd. in Riverhead is accepting clothing and medical supplies that can be dropped off at the Parish Rectory on Pond View Road, according to its website. The church is also accepting cash and checks. The checks should be made out to St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Center and should indicate "Support of Ukraine."
- In Lindenhurst, the Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church at 225 N. 4th St. is accepting clothing starting Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m. Clothing can be new and or gently used. For more information, email holyfamilyukrainiancathchurch@gmail.com.
- First aid equipment is being accepted at St. Vladimir Ukrainian Parish Center at 226 Uniondale Ave. in Uniondale, said the Rev. Wasyl Hrynkiw, pastor of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hempstead.
