Today marks 31 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union and six months since the country was invaded by Russia.
Greenbridge Roundabout and Central library will be lit up blue and yellow, the national colours of Ukraine, in a show of solidarity with Ukrainians in Swindon and across the world.
Community efforts from organisations, charities, volunteers and sponsors in the town have been a helping hand for those Ukrainians fleeing war. These charities have supported Swindon Borough Council’s Warm Welcome Team, which is currently assisting 117 adults and 61 children who have arrived in Swindon from Ukraine. The town has a total of 74 sponsors currently hosting those who have fled Ukraine, with 60 more sponsors matched and awaiting their arrivals.
The Swindon Welcomes Ukraine Committee have also issued 86 bikes to people arriving from Ukraine with help from organisations like Swindon Cycling Club, Run & Repair, Swindon Recycles and Swindon Cycles who have all been helping Ukrainians get back their independence with refurbished and road-ready bikes and equipment.
Also helping Ukrainians in the town is the Pattern Church, which holds a weekly bring and share dinner to families arriving in Swindon so they can meet other Ukrainians and make new friends. ‘The Table’ sessions are held from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday nights at Pattern Church, Penzance Drive, Swindon SN5 7JL.
To find out more about how you can support Ukrainian people here in Swindon, search ‘Ukraine’ on www.swindon.gov.uk.
