On 24 February 2022, Ukrainians were thrust into a nightmare as war became an undeniable reality with the Russian invasion. In response, we did what we could to help—providing emergency support and funding for those fleeing to safety and arriving in Lincolnshire.
OVERVIEW
Since the beginning of the Ukraine crisis, the Lincolnshire Community Foundation (LCF) has been a vital source of support for refugees arriving in Lincolnshire. Through the Big Lincolnshire Welcome Appeal, LCF initially raised over £13,500, assisting 57 Ukrainian families. Building on this success, Lincolnshire County Council and the Homes for Ukraine Scheme provided an additional £100,000, extending aid to 241 more refugees. As refugees settled, LCF adapted its support from essentials like communication devices and bicycles to household items needed for independent living.
Additional support included £100,000 from Lincolnshire County Council for 12 community groups, a £30,000 donation from Cranswick PLC, and £950 from local photographer Martha Woodward’s calendar sales.
Our partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and close ties with the Ukrainian community remain strong. As we look towards the future, we understand that new challenges may arise. Yet, our commitment to supporting our Ukrainian guests is unwavering. We will continue to stand by them, providing the resources and support needed to help them establish secure, fulfilling lives in Lincolnshire.
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As the tragic events in Ukraine unfolded from 1,600 miles away, the Lincolnshire Community Foundation (LCF) took swift action. The Foundation’s Staff and Trustees launched the Big Lincolnshire Welcome Appeal, initially raising over £13,500 in public donations to support those fleeing the conflict. Through this appeal, 57 Ukrainian families and individuals received small grants for essential items, helping them integrate into their new communities in Lincolnshire.
Seeing the positive impact of the initial funding, Lincolnshire County Council partnered with LCF to expand this support further. From December 2022 to July 2023, LCF distributed an additional £100,000 from the UK Government’s Homes for Ukraine Scheme, supporting a further 241 families and individuals as they settled into their new lives in Lincolnshire.
Meeting Evolving Needs
As refugees began their new lives, their needs evolved. Early requests focused on essential communication tools for job hunting, staying connected with family, and bicycles for transportation. Over time, however, a new set of needs emerged as refugees started moving from host accommodations to independent living. Requests shifted towards white goods, furniture, and other long-term settlement necessities, reflecting their journey from immediate survival to establishing stable homes.
Ukraine Refugee Integration Fund
Acknowledging the vital role played by the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sectors, Lincolnshire County Council allocated a further £100,000 to LCF. This funding was distributed to 12 groups in Lincolnshire committed to supporting Ukrainian refugees by reducing isolation, enhancing community cohesion, improving mental health and well-being, and offering pathways to employment and education. A further £100,000 was distributed in June 2024 with 11 VCFSE groups being funded to assist with the wrap around support for incoming and established Ukrainians.
Generous Contributions from Cranswick PLC
As word of the Big Lincolnshire Welcome Fund spread, Cranswick PLC, one of Britain’s leading food producers, made a generous donation of £30,000. With this support, LCF was able to assist 40 individual applicants and 6 community organisations dedicated to aiding Ukrainian families. Cranswick’s contribution provided critical, practical support, helping refugees as they adjust to life in a new country.
Caistor Calendar Fund
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, local photographer Martha Woodward created a 2021 calendar showcasing the charm of Caistor. She donated £950 from calendar sales to help Ukrainian refugees in Caistor and nearby areas. This contribution supported six households and helped foster new business ideas, resulting in job opportunities for some of the refugees.
Looking Forward: Continuing Our Commitment
Our partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and close ties with the Ukrainian community remain strong. As we look towards the future, we understand that new challenges may arise. Yet, our commitment to supporting our Ukrainian guests is unwavering. We will continue to stand by them, providing the resources and support needed to help them establish secure, fulfilling lives in Lincolnshire.
For those looking to get involved or support our work, please contact Lincolnshire Community Foundation at 01529 305 825 or email info@lincolnshirecf.co.uk. Together, we can continue making a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most.
