Somerville Tyabb Rotary members have heard how local support could provide medical equipment, emergency supplies and winter essentials to communities affected by the war in Ukraine.
Chrestyna Kmetj and Teresa Lachowicz addressed the club at Somerville Community House’s Annie Sage building on Wednesday 9 September. They outlined humanitarian needs and practical ways to help through Rotary’s international networks.
Ms Kmetj, a long-term Mornington Peninsula resident with Ukrainian roots, spoke about the impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion on everyday life.
She described families facing air-raid warnings, displacement and disruptions to electricity and heating. She also outlined the emotional strain on children and relatives of those serving on the front line.
While schools, hospitals and community life continued under difficult conditions, she told members sustained international support remained necessary.
Somerville Tyabb Rotary Hears How Aid Reaches Ukraine
Ms Lachowicz outlined assistance reaching affected communities through the Ukraine Crisis Appeal. She is the Ukraine Aid Coordinator with the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations and a representative of the appeal.
She described shipments of medical and humanitarian supplies coordinated through Rotary Donations in Kind and partners in Poland and Ukraine.
These have included wheelchairs, mobility aids, defibrillators and ultrasound machines, alongside warm clothing and children’s toys.
The presentation also covered support for displaced families, trauma recovery programs for children and adults, and rehabilitation for veterans.
Ms Lachowicz explained how partnerships involving Rotary Australia World Community Service connect Australian contributions with organisations delivering assistance in Ukraine.
Generators And Water Equipment Among Winter Priorities
With Ukraine approaching winter, the speakers identified portable generators, power banks and water filtration equipment as priorities. They explained how attacks on energy and water infrastructure were affecting essential services.
Members discussed practical ways to assist, including supplying generators, water purification equipment and medical aid.
Questions explored how contributions could be put to best use, whether through donated goods shipped from Australia or purchases made in Europe.
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