02/24/2023
Today on the anniversary of Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on what has transpired during this difficult year. On February 24th, 2022, we spent the day in shock, terrified for our friends and family in Ukraine. In the days and sleepless nights that immediately followed, we were focused on making sure our loved ones were alive and safe. And then, as it became clear that the war would not end in 3 days and that Ukraine might actually have a chance at victory, we sprung into action.
Our history of philanthropic work in Ukraine allowed us to immediately partner with a number of US-based organizations who were able to provide the supplies that were so badly needed. Organizations such as Medical Bridges and Blessings International, who quickly recognized that we had the infrastructure and capability to help fulfill their own missions to provide humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian people.
We continue to leverage these relationships, which allow us to source supplies that are donated or heavily discounted, in order to maximize the impact of every dollar spent. Our most recent effort saw us partnering with a German NGO that sourced generators at cost from a German manufacturer, allowing us to purchase 48 generators at 40% below market price. These generators are already being distributed to various facilities around Ukraine.
Here are a few data points that show what Daar Foundation has been able to accomplish. Over the last 365 days, we have:
-Shipped and distributed around 200 pallets containing over 100,000 lbs. of medical supplies and medicines, worth more than $2 million.
-Provided medicines from Blessings International that amount to 1,161,243 treatment days and 197,240 curative treatments.
-Purchased 56 generators and 10 solar power stations.
-Provided over 1750 tourniquets and individual first aid kits, and over 5,000 items of personal protective gear including ballistic vests and helmets, for civilian volunteers and Territorial Defense.
-Distributed over 6000 hand/toe/body warmers, 80 tons of food, thousands of blankets, coats and thermal underwear sets.
-Purchased 4 Ford Transit vans and a Renault box truck to facilitate our distribution of supplies around Ukraine.
-Provided grants of over $250,000 to local nonprofits effectively operating on the ground in Ukraine.
There is much more, but these are just some of the highlights of the aid we’ve provided to Ukraine over the last year. None of this would have been possible without the support of our donors and partners. Thank you to each and every one of you for your help and commitment to our mission.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to our work and to making a real difference in the lives of Ukrainians enduring this nightmare. Since fundraising has slowed for all charitable organizations operating in Ukraine, we continue to ask for your help in providing the financial support necessary for us to continue our efforts.
Our hope is that while we can continue our important work at Daar Foundation, the next 365 days will bring victory to Ukraine and launch the next phase in our efforts – rebuilding the beautiful country we love, a free and independent Ukraine!
https://standwithukrainefund.org/donate