Our trustee and vice chair, Nicky, recently visited SHAP, the Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, based on Station Industrial Estate in Swindon, and came away genuinely inspired by the work they are doing.
At Dressability, we really believe in working alongside other organisations in our community so that, together, we can deliver more support to those who need it most. This is a great example of that in action.
Dressability has provided the debranded coats you can see in the photos. While Nicky was there, the team were already packing these ready for shipment to Ukraine, with more coats to follow.
SHAP is a voluntary run organisation, not a charity, supporting people in Ukraine and vulnerable Ukrainian refugees in Swindon and the surrounding areas. With support from partner organisations, they have delivered over 2,300 tonnes of aid, much of it to eastern Ukraine where the need is greatest.
They have also helped deliver over 2,100 hospital beds, mattresses, medical aid, wheelchairs and other vital equipment, supported by the NHS and care organisations. Aid is sent every 6 to 8 weeks, with local companies supplying vans to make this possible.
One of the most moving things Nicky saw was their comfort candle project. Volunteers recycle tins, make wicks from card, and melt down donated candles to create simple sources of heat, light and a way to warm food using just two bricks. A simple idea with a powerful impact.
Thank you to Carol, Volodymyr, Natalia and Viktoriya, pictured here, just a few of the 100 volunteers who give their time. Nicky was made so welcome, with coffee, Ukrainian nuts and local chocolates, while chatting with Carol, vice chair, and Natalia who does much of the networking with contacts in Ukraine.
An incredible organisation and a great reminder of how much stronger we are when we work together. If you are part of a group or organisation that feels there could be mutual benefit in partnering with Dressability, we would love to hear from you.
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