Over 4.5 million of Ukrainians have become refugees since the Russian invasion started more than 40 days ago. Despite the generosity of European governments, institutions, organisations and individuals to welcome them, they are still in so much need.

Furthermore, in some countries like the UK to become a sponsor for a Ukrainians refugee it is mandatory to have a personal contact.

That is why Michael Prest, the Director of Christian association UFM Worldwide, Mark Meynell, preaching Director for Europe and Caribbean of Langham Partnership, and Nay Dawson, Regional Training Co-ordinator of IFES Europe, have created Ukraine Connect.

They aim to response to growing requests from staff and families, as well as requests for hospitality and messages from those wanting to welcome Ukrainian refugees into their home.

“Connections are being made each day”

“We have come up with a simple matching service where we connect hosts with those seeking a home. We are using our wide networks to find homes and send out the message to refugees that this is working. Connections and matches are being made each day”, say the organisers.

They also offer advice and resources for both refugees and hosts in English and Ukrainian on their website.

Over 90 matches made

The volunteer administrative team have so far seen 99 individuals matched with a host. Ukraine Connect already has over 400 people that are seeking homes and more than 245 offering homes.

“Once the host and those seeking hospitality are matched, they are pointed to the UK Homes for Ukraine scheme or the relevant scheme for their jurisdiction, ensuring that the necessary vetting and safeguarding procedures are in place”.

You can learn more about this initiative  here.