None of us can have failed to be moved by the pictures of devastation coming out of Ukraine and of the huge impact on the population. In wanting to be Jesus’ hands and feet, Hope Church Tonbridge has undertaken three relief trips to Krakow, in March, July and December 2022, taking aid to Ukrainian refugees.

These have been organised with the Catalyst group of churches and have been funded by donations from members, together with external practical support, including Hillsong Church and Tesco. Many donations of food and clothes have come from the local community.

The first trip was undertaken by Graham and Sue Souch and took around a tonne of food, clothing and medical supplies. The second trip was undertaken by Paul and Lindsey Clark and additionally took shoe box presents for children.

Paul reports “the church building in Krakow had been turned into a makeshift warehouse downstairs, with the upstairs converted into temporary accommodation for 90 Ukranian women and children. The pictures of life in the villages of Ukraine were heart rending, as were the stories. At the end of the day the war impacts ordinary people just like us. Our help is important and reaches the ordinary people.”

We are currently planning our fourth, due to leave on 27th April. Please click here for further information about this trip. All donations are welcome via the church bank account, marked “Ukraine”.