Redbridge hosts event for Homes for Ukraine sponsors and guests

Redbridge Council recently hosted an event to warmly welcome the Ukrainian people who have moved to the borough following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

 

The event, held at Fairlop Waters, was also an opportunity to learn of the experiences of the Redbridge residents who have opened their homes to Ukrainians who had no choice but to flee their war-torn homeland.

 

Following the outbreak of the Russian invasion last March, Redbridge Council immediately launched a donation drive, and the response from local people was phenomenal. Redbridge donation centres were overwhelmed with items kindly given by local people, which meant extra drivers were needed to complete the mercy mission to Eastern Europe.

 

One of these drivers was Council Leader Cllr Jas Athwal, who drove more than three tonnes of supplies to refugees escaping the invasion. Cllr Athwal made the 1,600-mile trip to the Romania-Ukraine border with urgently needed coats, blankets, nappies and medical supplies donated by people in Redbridge.

 

300 Ukranian guests have made Redbridge their home as part of the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. The Homes for Ukraine scheme was established in March 2022 and has helped over 115,000 people fleeing the war in Ukraine find safety in UK homes. Hosts were asked to sign up for an initial six months on the programme, and many have chosen to continue beyond this initial period.

 

Mary Ramsay told of her wonderful experience offering a home to a family of five, including three children. Mary, who lives in Wanstead, said: “My husband, myself, and my daughter found it a fantastic experience. The family we offered a home to had two eleven-year-old twins and a five-year-old. My grandchildren always visit me, so I love having a busy home. It was no trouble whatsoever.

 

“We also enjoyed social outings together. We all went to Kew Gardens and Colchester Zoo, which was great fun. The family have now moved into rented accommodation, so it feels good that we helped them settle in and give them that helping hand.”

 

Mira Kvasnytsia, her sister and her children arrived in Redbridge last year and was the guest of Father Andrew Headon, Parish Priest of Ss Peter & Paul in Ilford. Speaking at the event, Mira said: I’m so happy to have been taken in by Andrew. I will always be forever grateful to Andrew for giving me a home. I want to thank him for everything.”

 

Cllr Kam Rai, Deputy Leader of Redbridge Council, said: “The Ukrainian people have shown remarkable courage and resilience. I couldn’t be prouder to meet the families who have shown such bravery in the face of tyranny by leaving their homeland and coming to Redbridge.

 

"In return, the people of Redbridge have opened our hearts to Ukraine, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming, and I sincerely hope our new Ukrainian neighbours can now regard Redbridge as a home away from home.

 

“It was great to hear stories of their experiences in Redbridge and the supportive relationships many have built with local families. As a council, we are committed to standing with the people of Ukraine and will continue to do all we can to support Ukrainians who can now call Redbridge home.”

 

During the event, Work Redbridge, Vision RCL and Beam Homeless Social Enterprise representatives also spoke to guests about available support, including employment opportunities.”