Ukraine - War Relief

The Situation

In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, displacing millions and creating an urgent need for humanitarian aid. Much of the fighting has been concentrated in the Donbas region in the east, where Russia now controls over 20% of Ukraine’s territory. An estimated 14.5 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, and nearly all of those displaced require some form of humanitarian assistance. Winter months are especially difficult, as repeated Russian drone attacks have targeted the electrical grid, often leaving communities with power for only a few hours per day.

Before the war, the Ukrainian Nazarean Church had over 750 members across eleven congregations, primarily in western Ukraine. Since the invasion, an estimated 40% of church members have been displaced, relocating to other European congregations or, in some cases, to the Akron area. Members involved in agriculture are facing significant financial hardships, compounded by several years of drought and low prices caused by the Russian blockade of the Black Sea.



Over the past four years, HarvestCall has worked to support our brethren in western Ukraine as well as those living near the front lines in the east. In villages close to the Russian front, where electricity and water are scarce, there is a critical need for well-drilling equipment, solar panels, battery packs, and essential food and hygiene items. Several shipping containers of clothing, comforters, hygiene items, and generators have already been delivered, and additional monetary aid has been used to purchase other essential supplies in-country.

HarvestCall European Committee Response

Some of the items shipped to Ukraine from Rittman and Rockville include:

·      25,000+ articles of clothing, including coats, hoodies, sweaters, shirts, and jeans

·      105 large and small generators

·      2 Brickette machines for winter heating needs

·      Food items, including beans and peanut butter

·      Well-drilling equipment

·      Medical supplies for hospitals, including 30 hospital beds, wheelchairs, and hoists

·      Hygiene items such as toothpaste, body wash, shampoo, towels, and vitamins

·      Flashlights, batteries, and solar panels

·      2,500+ comforters quilted by our Sisters

·      150 cots and mattresses, including sheets and pillows for displaced individuals

·      Mini bulks of liquid detergent

·      Soap bars from the Wolcott distribution center

Additional relief aid has been provided through partner organizations. Over 40 sea containers, including medical supplies, clothing, and toiletries, were sent through Slavic Gospel Mission. Grace Publishing and Iron Curtain Ministries have also been distributing more than 40,000 food parcels per month in eastern Ukraine.



The people of Ukraine continue to face immense challenges due to the horrors of war. Daily loss of life and possessions serve as a constant reminder of the fragility of life. Amid this suffering, there is great opportunity for the Gospel to be shared. We ask that you continue to keep Ukraine in your prayers, and if you feel led to support the Lord’s work in Ukraine, your generous donations are deeply appreciated and make a meaningful difference.