Leamington humanitarian mission delivers ambulances, medical aid, and Easter gifts to Ukraine
A humanitarian mission, involving the delivery of ambulances, medical aid and easter gifts delivered from Leamington to Ukraine, took place this month.
Three ambulances and one medical evacuation vehicle arrived safely in Leżajsk, Poland, after travelling over 1,600 miles from Leamington Spa.
The mission was led by Leamington-based community charity Belveder, in partnership with LKQ Euro Car Parts.
From Leżajsk, the vehicles are being transferred into Ukraine with the support of Caritas Polska to provide life-saving support to communities affected by the ongoing war.
The mission not only involved delivering vehicles, but, with the "support" and "generosity" of LKQ Euro Car Parts, the Rotary Club of Warwick, Stratford on Avon Fishing and Outdoors Ltd, Kenilworth Lions, and many other supporters, volunteers also transported 2,000 chocolate Easter eggs, bringing joy to hundreds of children across Ukraine this Easter.
His Honour Antony Cleary OBE, who completed his sixth ambulance trip, said: "We know that our ambulances and their shipments of medical aid serve urgent civilian and military needs in Ukraine, but we also know how small our contribution is in the face of continued onslaught by Russia."
With this mission, a total of 43 vehicles have now been delivered, which is an important milestone in the continued support of Ukraine's medical needs.
"We're incredibly grateful to Soroptimist International Kenilworth & District for their thoughtful donations and gifts for children – your support is deeply appreciated.
"Through their generosity, a collection of toys was provided for orphaned children in Ukraine, bringing much-needed comfort and smiles to young hearts."
Photos shared from Ukraine show children receiving their Easter gifts, their faces lit up with happiness despite the challenging circumstances.
The gifts symbolised solidarity, compassion, and the enduring connection between communities across borders.
David Maxted from Kenilworth Lions, who completed his third ambulance trip, reflected: "It is a privilege to support another Belvedere convoy by crewing an ambulance destined for Ukraine.
"Our recent trip was well worth the three days spent driving across Europe to Eastern Poland. 'We serve'".
This milestone would not have been possible without the commitment of the volunteer drivers, who crossed multiple countries to deliver the aid:
- His Honour Antony Cleary OBE
- Cllr Adrian Barton (Warwick District Council)
- David Blick (Warwickshire Gin Company)
- Richard Kijewski
- George Eden
- David Maxted Kenilworth Lions
- Ivan Pointon Kenilworth Lions
- Paul Stoodley
The ambulances were prepared and serviced thanks to Ferdotti Motor Services, while vital medical supplies were donated by Ukraine Medical Charity in Warwick and Cardiff for Ukraine.
In parallel, a major breakthrough was achieved regarding cross-border regulations.
Thanks to the intervention of Matt Western MP, recent issues with heavy fines at the Polish-Ukrainian border were resolved.
New rules implemented by the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure will now make humanitarian convoy movements smoother and penalty-free - a victory that will benefit many volunteers across Europe.
One of the project coordinators, Dawid Kozlowski said: "We are proud, we are grateful, and we are not stopping."
"Our volunteers, partners, and supporters are the heart and soul of this mission.
"Thanks to them, lives are being saved, hope is being restored, and joy is being shared – even in the darkest times."
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