Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine
Humanitarian aid for Ukraine's frontline fighters, mums and babies has never been more urgently needed.
Brian Watkins, Worcestershire representative for the Ukraine Freedom Company (UFC), updated Pershore Rotary on 25 March 2026, outlining the organisation’s work and Ukraine’s evolving humanitarian needs.
Founded in 2022 following the Russian invasion, UFC is a UK-based, volunteer-led, non-profit organisation delivering targeted aid directly into Ukraine, with a focus on eastern frontline regions. It provides humanitarian, medical and logistical support through local partnerships, where volunteers source, sort and transport supplies from the UK, then distribute them in Ukraine via trusted civilian networks.
A current priority is “comfort boxes” for frontline personnel. These contain essential items, such as first aid materials, personal hygiene products, thermal clothing, basic food and simple cooking equipment. Used plastic or metal ‘comfort boxes’ are always welcome. In addition, the organisation supplies trauma kits, tourniquets and haemostatic dressings to frontline medics, alongside generators (2–8kW) for hospitals, schools and households affected by repeated attacks. Its volunteer base includes medical and logistics professionals who coordinate end-to-end delivery.
Medical supplies remain in acute demand. UFC is able to repurpose UK items approaching “use-by” dates, often otherwise discarded, for safe use in Ukraine. The organisation is seeking partnerships with hospitals, care providers and pharmacies to redirect such stock. It also accepts mobility aids, including wheelchairs, crutches and walking frames.
Support for civilians is equally urgent. UFC supply the 'Gift of Life' charity in Ternopil with baby formula, wet wipes and nappies, which are in short supply and significantly inflated in price. UFC works with local partners in Ternopil to distribute these essentials to affected families.
Innovation is also part of UFC’s impact. The Getmet device—a handheld scanner that detects shrapnel without X-ray or ultrasound—has already accelerated surgical treatment at Ternopil Hospital, which handles up to 150 operations weekly. Each unit costs approximately £1,500.
To make donations of money, items for comfort boxes, baby formula, nappies or any other essential items – contact Brian Watkins at Lovelacewatkins@uwclub.net or on 07771 694000.
