Leamington-based community charity send more aid into Ukraine: 'Every mission is a collective act of humanity'
Another convoy of hope reached the Ukrainian border last month.
Between 9 and 12 May, three humanitarian aid convoys arrived successfully in Ukraine, carrying life-saving medical equipment and humanitarian supplies for communities impacted by the ongoing war.
Each vehicle was packed with carefully selected items to meet urgent needs on the ground, from emergency kits to essential logistical support, and was personally driven across Europe by a dedicated team of volunteers.
Sue Rasmussen, one of the volunteers, shared her reflections on the mission: "I had set off with five complete strangers and by the end, I felt I had acquired five friends for life.
"For all of us, arriving in one of the last towns in Poland before the border to unload and see two of the vehicles immediately driven away by Ukrainians was a hugely emotional moment.
"On our way back to Kraków, we heard the vehicles were already headed for the front line, which made it seem very real, very close.
"European security depends on Ukraine.
"Our neighbours are fighting for survival and need our help.
"Let's all do more."
Many of the medical supplies onboard were generously provided by Ukrainian Medical Charity, whose ongoing support remains vital to the success of these missions.
The journey across Europe presented numerous challenges.
The team faced prolonged delays at the Channel Tunnel, losing several crucial hours in queues.
Mechanical issues later on, deep in rural Germany, further tested their resolve, but thanks to the kindness of local residents and a shared determination, the vehicles were soon back on the road.
After over 1,300 miles of driving, the convoy finally reached the Ukrainian border, where all three vehicles were successfully handed over to local drivers.
While the volunteers prepared for a simple flight home, the vehicles they delivered were already en route to some of the hardest-hit regions of Ukraine, where they will support evacuation efforts and provide emergency care to those most affected by the war.
Dawid Kozlowski, from the Leamington-based community charity Belveder said: "We don't just send ambulances –we send solidarity.
"These vehicles carry more than equipment: they carry a message that the people of Ukraine are not forgotten.
"Every mission is a collective act of humanity."
Oliver Ansell-Hodges, a student at Warwick University, added: "Across 1,300 miles, strangers became friends — bound by our common goal to help the Ukrainian people.
"We live in peace and security at home, a right that Ukraine fights to maintain for us all.
"Our ancestors fought for peace on our continent — it took a concerted effort from all facets of British society over 80 years ago.
"Ukraine is now the frontline in a wider struggle for a lasting European peace.
"I could not stand by and allow our friends in Ukraine to fight alone.
"This convoy sent not only aid, it also sent a message of support to all Ukrainians receiving it.
"Thank you to everyone who supported my fundraiser, thank you to our generous suppliers across the UK, and thank you to my excellent team of new friends."
This delivery was made possible through the continued support of LKQ Euro Car Parts, whose contribution to our campaign has enabled us to keep our operations moving and saving lives.
The delivery would also not have been possible without the time, energy, and compassion of the following individuals:
- George Eden
- Andrew Ransberry
- Oliver Ansell-Hodges
- Huw Lewis
- Richard Kijewski
- Sue Rasmussen
To date, 45 vehicles have been delivered, and with the unwavering help of our supporters, they are not stopping here.
"Together, we are delivering more than just ambulances. We are delivering hope.
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