MFF Match Challenge: Humanitarian Aid in Ukraine

Makulinski Family Foundation matches $100,000 in donations for Humanitarian Relief in Ukraine, totaling $200,000 in emergency funding to ShelterBox USA and Rotary International's Disaster Relief Fund.

Makulinski Foundation - Ukraine Humanitarian Aid

Since 2015, the Makulinski Family Foundation has worked alongside The Rotary Foundation to provide relief for humanitarian crises across the globe. Given the devastating injustices facing the people of Ukraine, the Makulinski Family Foundation has proudly pledged to match $100,000 with the Rotary District 7770 of South Carolina and Rotary District 6600 of Ohio to provide a total of $200,000 in emergency humanitarian relief funding.

The money raised by Rotary District 7770 of South Carolina will be donated to ShelterBox, a critical organization providing emergency disaster relief funding in more than 100 countries. (Match Complete)

The funds raised by Rotary District 6600 of Ohio will be donated to Rotary International's Disaster Relief Fund which will provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. (Match Challenge is in Progress)

A Tradition of Humanitarian Aid - ShelterBox

Founded by the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard in Cornwall, England, in April 2000, ShelterBox has grown to become the largest Rotary Club project in the world. From the survivors of Hurricane Katrina to the refugees fleeing violence in Syria, ShelterBox has touched the lives of more than 1.5 million natural disaster victims and refugees since its founding.

Shelterbox Humanitarian Aid Ukraine

Image courtesy of ShelterBox

Between 2005 and 2006, ShelterBox sent out over 22,000 boxes and kits to aid natural disaster victims - nearly ten times the number of donated boxes since its founding. In just a few short years, the organization became a significant supporter of international disaster relief.

Today, the crisis in Ukraine requires the support of organizations like ShelterBox more than ever before. Following the February 24th Russian military operations on Ukraine, more than 10 million Ukrainian have been internally displaced or have fled from cities like Mariupol and Kyiv.

ShelterBox in Ukraine

Millions of refugees have poured into the neighboring countries of Poland and Moldova, desperately in need of warmth and provisions. Yet, unfathomable obstacles challenge everyday survival for the citizens who are either unable or unwilling to leave their Ukrainian homes.

Residents face acute shortages of water, shelter, and food amid daily missile strikes on schools, theaters, malls, and other civilian structures.

ShelterBox is responding to the crisis in Ukraine by deploying teams to Poland, Ukraine, and Moldova to support the influx of refugees. Working with relief partners like People in Need, ShelterBox will continue to provide the following items to refugees and displaced Ukrainians:

Mattresses

Collective centers in western Ukraine such as schools and churches house thousands of displaced residents. The mattresses will offer comfort and warmth to those forced to take shelter outside of their homes.

Shelter Kits and Shelter Boxes

Each shelter kit contains tools, rope, thermal blanket, solar lights, buckets, cooking sets, and water. These essential items are critical for people surviving in buildings damaged by Russian missile strikes on civilians. In addition, shelter Boxes include family-sized tents engineered to withstand the elements.

Shelterbox Delivering Humanitarian Aid

Image courtesy of ShelterBox

Hygiene Kits & Hygiene Items

These kits include soap, washing powder, and toothpaste for people forced to leave personal items behind. In addition, several other hygiene items are available for refugees based on individual needs.

Warm Winter Coats

With temperatures reaching -8 degrees Fahrenheit, the need for warm coats and clothing is dire. Electricity and heat are constantly disrupted among the Russian shellings, and the danger of hypothermia is imminent for many Ukrainians.

The Makulinski Family Foundation is proud to help provide essential aid to Ukrainian citizens during this time of upheaval. The safety and stability of home is a human right, and no one should be forced to flee their home in fear. Organizations like ShelterBox help provide necessities that help communities maintain dignity and recover from trauma.

If you’re interested in offering additional humanitarian support, ShelterBox is accepting donations here.

- Article by Amanda Kern (March 2022)