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In times of humanitarian crisis, finding accurate details and facts can be challenging in a sea of information. Both misinformation and disinformation can put our Red Cross staff, volunteers, and the people we seek to help at risk. Here’s how the Red Cross is helping on the ground in Ukraine and surrounding region.

“My life as I was leaving Syria took the path of the unknown. I wasn’t sure what would happen next.” Read Ghufran Othman’s story about her journey from refugee to volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross. 

It has now been almost two months since I packed my bags and headed to Europe to support the Red Cross response to the conflict in Ukraine. I can’t help but think of the millions of people who have also had to leave their homes, under very different circumstances, unsure of what they will eventually return to. The word “millions” doesn’t do these people justice. They aren’t just some anonymous number.

Here are some amazing examples of how people across Canada have been moved to help in creative ways, using their interests and passions to raise money to help those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Canadian Kathy Mueller is currently working with the International Federation of Red Cross Societies as communications coordinator for the Ukraine humanitarian crisis; here, she shares her experiences.

Millions of people are stranded in dire conditions across Ukraine, struggling to access food, water, electricity, medication, childcare supplies, and other basic necessities. Those who are fleeing - sometimes in pajamas - take whatever they can carry. Their needs, too, are immense.

The conflict in Ukraine is having widespread and devastating humanitarian impacts. Thanks to the generosity of Canadians, the Red Cross can offer humanitarian assistance to people in Ukraine and surrounding countries.
Here are five of the most effective ways you can offer help right now.

We all know what we’re seeing in the news can be worrisome – even, at times, frightening. If we’re feeling worried or alarmed about what we’re seeing in the news as adults, imagine what kids and youth may be thinking. Here are some tips for talking with children and youth about distressing or traumatic events in the news.