Empathy with new crisis

Dear Red Crosser,

The crisis in Ukraine has been gripping everyone for weeks. Almost immediately, there was a great willingness to help in the Netherlands. As Cooperating Aid Organisations (SHO), we joined forces and started the Giro555 campaign for Ukraine. Companies, individuals and organisations gave generously. So far, over €150 million has been collected. Part of the proceeds will be used by the Red Cross to provide assistance in Ukraine and surrounding countries.

Together with colleagues Naomi Nolte and Joost André, I travelled to Poland. The distress we saw there was overwhelming. People just like you and me found themselves in a conflict situation from one day to the next. I spoke with the Ukrainian Oksana from Kharkov. The moment the bombs fell next to her house, she decided to flee with her children. At the shelter where we met, the Red Cross provided blankets, food, water and a safe haven. 

Sometimes it seems obvious, but as the Red Cross we were immediately ready to help. This crisis again requires flexibility from all of us. Providing a service that you maybe weren't expecting to provide, or exchanging ideas about new forms of assistance. Together, we know how to put our shoulders to the wheel time and again. And that makes me proud of our organisation. This HENRY+ focuses on stories of volunteers who joined the Red Cross to help others and grew as people as a result. Being a volunteer is not just about giving, you get a lot in return.

Have fun reading!

Marieke van Schaik
Managing Director