Against the backdrop of global events, including the cessation of the temporary ceasefire in Gaza, Boris Johnson’s testimony to the Covid Inquiry, and the British Government’s notable declaration regarding Rwanda, Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership (SHAP) maintained unwavering dedication to its mission of supporting Ukraine and its people.
Over the weekend, SHAP orchestrated a remarkable display of solidarity. An empty 40’ articulated lorry arrived at the warehouse near Swindon Railway Station, originating from Poland.
The concern about having enough volunteers to load such a substantial vehicle was swiftly dispelled. In a display of community spirit, over 20 volunteers rallied together, dedicating four hours to load nearly 900 boxes of aid, hospital beds, mattresses, and walking aids onto the lorry. The united effort left the team with a sense of accomplishment and the assurance that they had contributed significantly to supporting Ukraine.
The lorry, intentionally only half-filled, hinted at more to come, with an additional 25 pallets of hygiene wipes slated for loading on Monday.
Sunday marked the initiation of a project to transform a generously donated 27-seater bus, courtesy of the Hedingham Omnibus Company, into ‘The Children’s Story Bus,’ destined for use in Ukraine.
The week commenced early on Monday, with the partially loaded lorry making its way to Neptune in Blagrove, West Swindon, where additional hygiene wipes were loaded. Simultaneously, volunteers tirelessly removed 24 seats from the bus, propelling the conversion from a standard bus to The Children’s Story Bus.
The ongoing commitment of SHAP volunteers was evident with the afternoon spent sorting and boxing aid at the warehouse unit, along with the continuous operation of the trench candle-making “factory.”
Tuesday dawned with SHAP extending support to locally based Ukrainians, delivering bedroom furniture to a family in the town centre. The evening brought the usual warmth of the Ukrainian get-together at the Pattern Church, fostering conversations, aiding friends through bureaucratic systems, and indulging in chocolate biscuits and coffee.
Efficiency in aid transportation was the focus on Tuesday afternoon, as SHAP explored the potential purchase of a 12-tonne lorry. The impressive MAN truck, boasting modern features and a modest 740,000 miles on the clock, underwent a test drive, setting the stage for further deliberations at the Board meeting.
Wednesday saw SHAP Board members convene to navigate a varied agenda, with the highlight being the presentation and launch of the organisation’s official website: www.shapuk.org.
The latter part of the week witnessed the arrival of three articulated lorries from Poland to collect a substantial 152 pallets of hygiene wipes donated to SHAP by GAMA Healthcare. Despite initial challenges, including a locked warehouse, the lorries were successfully loaded, ensuring their timely departure to Poland and Ukraine.
In summary, SHAP Chairman Mike Bowden expressed pride in a week filled with achievements. Four articulated trucks, laden with aid collected by SHAP and its partners, departed the UK, carrying approximately 80 tonnes of essential supplies destined for Ukraine.
A heartfelt congratulations to all involved.
