Manchester stands in solidarity with Ukraine – and how you can help

Manchester has a proven track record of standing together in solidarity, and declaring love and support for people who need it.

Iconic Manchester buildings, such as the Central Library, have been lit up in the colours of the Ukrainian flag – in a display of the city’s solidarity with the country.

National burger brand Honest Burgers held an ‘Honesty Box Day’ fundraising event, donating all proceeds to support #CookForUkraine

Manchester Marathon have released a special Ukraine race bib ‘to raise vital funds for those who have fled their homes and are in need of food, water and healthcare.’

https://twitter.com/ilovemcr/status/1499163570520657930?s=21

Today (Thurs 24 March), a public charity appeal has been launched to help support Ukrainians fleeing the war in their country who come to Manchester.

The MCR Ukraine Welcome Fund will fund charities and voluntary sector groups assisting families and individuals relocating to the city, such as small grants for essential items and advice.

It will be run by The Lord Mayor of Manchester’s Charity Appeal Trust in partnership with Manchester City Council. The Council have kicked off the fund with a donation of £50,000 and every penny raised will support Ukrainian evacuees in the city.

The fund has already identified Caritas (Salford Diocese) and Europia as charity partners with considerable experience supporting people arriving in the city with next to nothing.

“No one watching the horrific scenes unfolding in Ukraine following the Russian invasion can fail to be moved by the plight of the Ukrainian people,” said council leader Cllr Bev Craig.

https://twitter.com/ilovemcr/status/1497605965029560329?s=21

“Manchester stands in solidarity with them. We are ready to play our part, together with towns and cities across Europe, in welcoming evacuees escaping the conflict and the humanitarian disaster it is creating.

“While some people will even be opening their homes to arriving Ukrainians, we know not everyone is in a position to do that. But by donating to this fund you can show you care by helping to provide practical help and support right here in Manchester to those escaping danger and starting to rebuild their lives.”

https://twitter.com/ilovemcr/status/1497866664658022403?s=21

Council chief executive Joanne Roney OBE said: “I’m glad the council has been able to make the first donation. We know that Mancunians have big hearts and a proud tradition of hospitality and compassion. They will doubtless be generous in helping to welcome Ukrainian families to our city.”

Manchester City FC will be promoting the campaign on men’s and women’s match-days at both the Etihad Stadium and Academy Stadium.

Manchester City Council is working with other services to coordinate planning for the arrival of Ukrainian refugees under Government schemes, including the recently-launched Homes for Ukraine scheme, which enables UK residents to host Ukrainian evacuees.

The 40m Tower of Light landmark near Manchester Central Convention Centre, part of the city’s Civic Quarter Heat Network, will be illuminated blue and yellow – the colours of the Ukrainian flag – to mark the fund’s launch.

To donate to the MCR Ukraine Welcome Fund visit justgiving.com/campaign/MCRUkraineWelcome