Bolton Ukrainians issue urgent appeal for help for homeland

With the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion just under a month away, the Ukrainian community in Bolton say that support for their homeland is just as vital as ever.

As the cold winter bites, there is a particular need for diesel generators and power transformers to help people keep warm.

Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain Bolton branch chair Yaroslav Tymchyshyn said: “The temperatures have been dropping to minus 20 degrees and the Russians have been targeting the power stations.

“The resilience of the people has been incredible, they’ve been gathering out in the streets, they’ve been singing.

There have been frequent rallies in support of Ukraine in Bolton since the Russian invasion (Image: Newsquest)

“The will of the people will not be broken, but they need help and they especially need diesel generators and power transformers.”

He added: “I am appealing to the people of Bolton, if anyone has anything of that nature to come forward.

“It doesn’t matter what state they’re in or if people think they’re inoperable, there are people over there who can fix them.”

Mr Tymchyshyn said that people in Sweden, Poland, the Czech Republic and elsewhere had given generously but that more help was still needed.

The Ukrainian community in Bolton is also preparing for a special event at St Patrick’s RC Church on Great Moor Street in the town centre to mark the fourth anniversary of the invasion.

The Bolton branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain has along acted as the voice of Ukrainians in the borough and advocating for their interests.

Since the Russian invasion the association has been particularly prominent in organising protests, vigils and other public events in support of Ukraine and helping to rally support.

The organisation has also worked to make sure much needed supplies and donations make their way to people who need them back in their homeland.

Anyone who may be able to help with diesel generators or power transformers can contact the Bolton Ukrainian Cultural Centre by calling 01204 526038 or emailing bolton@augb.co.uk.

Mr Tymchyshyn says people who may be able to help can also call him directly on 07914021511.