Kherson.


We once more took aid to Kherson. Every time I go there I feel a sadness envelop me. It feels like an abandoned place. The first photo is of what should be a busy market. At 12:30, it was all but deserted. A few stragglers walked by the open stalls. 

For the main part it feels like people are just trying to survive. Last night Kherson came under very heavy shelling. Anastasiia, whom we took aid to, said that her area yesterday was thick with smoke. However, there is a determination by most people to stay. This is their city and they will not be driven out. But I think it takes it's toll. Especially amongst the children I fear. There are no schools, everything is online. It's too dangerous to play out. The opportunities for socializing with other children are severely restricted.
Although, never say never.....


When we arrive we are greeted with such warmth and friendship. We catch up with each others news.
Anastasiia works tirelessly at trying to source aid for her community. The aid which we purchase really is appreciated. It always seems relatively little, but we are reassured that it makes a difference.

We go to the shops, where Anastasiia has preordered the items and pays with the donations given. We return to her store room, where she quickly repacks the aid, and gives it out to people in her community, usually the same afternoon. Also she has got good at identifying different people's needs, so that they get what they really need. We were also able to take dog and cat food.

All fruit and vegetables are amazing in Ukraine, especially it seems to me in the south of the country. 
Kherson though is famous for it's watermelons. I have never tasted anything like them. They are sugar sweet and so juicy, filled with flavour. And I didn't like watermelons!!!  The one in the picture below cost me 50p.

Just to finish, a couple of pictures from Odesa that made me smile. There's a really good book market. I never thought of using books in this way.

And finally a cat.....
Thank you for your continued support.

To make a donation, please:
1. Open PayPal and, when asked for name of payee or email, enter trawden4ukraine@hotmail.com

Or, if you live in/near Trawden:
2. Use the Ukraine collection box in the community shop.

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