A WINCHESTER business has issued an urgent plea for support in its campaign to deliver vital supplies to Ukraine.
Tony Bush and Steven Groves of Winchester Hardwood Flooring started a JustGiving page earlier this year to assist their close friend and long-term supplier, Michael Volodimir Vorona, in Kyiv.
Thousands of pounds, a tireless amount of effort and four months later, three vehicles and medical supplies have been delivered to the border of Ukraine.
The vehicles, and trips, were funded using the business's own money, alongside significant donations from friends and associates worldwide.
Michael even put in £2,000 to help cover the shortfall.
However, while Mr Bush, the man behind the JustGiving page, has thanked those who have contributed so far, he is now asking for one last push to help fund another vitally needed 4x4.
He said: “Michael asked for help and asked if we could get some 4x4 vehicles to Ukraine to provide medical help, especially towards the winter.
“Six of us drove out to the Ukraine border to deliver the vehicles and medical supplies. That’s done and dusted.
“We didn’t quite reach the goal on our JustGiving page but if we do hit our target, we can supply one more vehicle for evacuating injured troops from the front line to helicopters. We’ve also been given generators to help with the generator shortage out there.”
After the vehicles reach their destination, they require some preparation before they’re ready for use.
“When they get the vehicle out there, they tend to remove the number plates, put military plates on and sometimes I think they camouflage paint them too,” he added.
With two weeks of fundraising to go, Mr Bush and his team have already acquired the fourth vehicle, a Ford Ranger, but need help covering the cost.
Any extra cash will go towards drone parts and generators.
Mr Bush said: “They use drones to know where they’re going and what they’re dealing with, I suppose to make sure they’re going to be safe. This time around they’re asking for drone parts and generators due to power cuts out there.”
Just under £4,000 has been donated to the JustGiving page by 29 supporters. To donate, go to: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/vehiclesforukraine
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