What can people in Malta do to help those fleeing their country?
As the war in Ukraine continues, forcing civilians to leave their homes and move to security, we asked the Ukrainian people in Malta to give insight into how the people in Malta can help.
Donations
Start with the basics. Thousands of people left their homes with very few things.
So those who arrive in Malta will need basics starting with clothes. But, to ensure that nothing is wasted and that these people can be given what they really need, donating money may be the best option. The Ukrainian Consulate in Malta is in the process of setting up a bank account to accept donations for Ukrainians arriving in Malta. Meanwhile, the Solidarity Overseas Service (SOS) Malta is raising money for Ukrainian refugees arriving at the Romanian border.
Housing
Any Ukrainians who come to Malta will have to spend time in quarantine but, after that, will need a place to stay with their family. Free housing – and basic home-made furniture – alleviates the burden.
Kalkara’s KENUP offices have so far been cleared to be converted into housing for 10 Ukrainian families fleeing the war. They are attractive for home furniture including beds, blankets, bath towels, rugs, electric kettles, mugs, dishes, cutlery, glasses, mini-fridges, microwaves, sandwich toasters, dining tables, chairs and drawers. Basic food supplies are also needed.
Employment
Once Ukrainian families settle in Malta they will want to be able to stand on their own two feet. It’s not just about survival. It’s also about dignity. Any job and job opportunities are welcome.
Schools and education
Ukrainian children were forced to stop attending school to escape from their homes. Offering them some form of schooling, perhaps in their own language, or English lessons to support them, will help them get back on track and ensure that they do not lose more than they already have.
Anyone wishing to help by offering job opportunities or lessons can get in touch here.
Health care
After traveling in difficult conditions, Ukrainians may face a range of physical and mental health issues. Any free and accessible support here helps them immensely. The government has so far said it will be offering free treatment to Ukrainian cancer patients.
Less paperwork
This is for the government. Over the past week, several Ukrainians in Malta have called on the authorities to waive COVID requirements such as requests for vaccine certificates and the need for quarantine. This is about the mental health of people who have just arrived in a new country after seeing the war and all the fears that come with it, they said.
Freelance journalism costs money. Times of Malta Support for price of coffee.
Support us