In a heartwarming display of generosity, volunteers from the parish of Stará Bělá organized a remarkable initiative to support Ukrainian families in the Moravian-Silesian region. The cultural house in Stará Bělá, Ostrava, became a hive of activity as 1,160 individuals from 413 Ukrainian families gathered to receive food aid and Christmas gifts. This event marked a record-breaking turnout, reflecting the growing impact of the initiative.

Coordinated by volunteers from the parish of Stará Bělá, the collection garnered an impressive four tons of essential items, including food, toiletries, clothing, and festive gifts from various cities across the region. The initiative, which takes place monthly, involves the participation of 15 parishes from locations such as Ostrava, Fulnek, and Brušperk, as well as contributions from Diakonie Třinec and volunteers from different parts of the Czech Republic.

Vojtěch Vlček, the coordinator of the Stará Bělá collection for Ukrainian families, expressed gratitude for the continuous support received since the initiative’s inception in March 2022. He acknowledged the diverse forms of contributions, ranging from tangible items to financial support via the parish website. Notable contributors include Brno doctor Sylva Rybníčková, who organizes collections in southern Moravia, and Roger Tout, a French resident of Ostrava, who generously provides 1,500 eggs each month.

Despite the commendable efforts, Vlček voiced concerns about the escalating needs of Ukrainian families. The number of families seeking assistance has surged from around 20 to 1,160 individuals in November alone. This increase is attributed to diminishing aid for Ukrainians in the Czech Republic and more stringent government support conditions for foreigners.

Among the beneficiaries is Olga Kravčenková, who fled from Kharkiv in the spring of 2022. Expressing gratitude for the support, she conveyed her hope for an end to the war, allowing her family to reunite—a sentiment shared by many Ukrainian families during this Christmas season. The initiative not only underscores the spirit of giving in Stará Bělá but also highlights the resilience and solidarity of communities coming together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by displacement and adversity.

Article by Prague Forum