BONNYVILLE – With a very short timeline, the MD of Bonnyville is collecting specific supplies for the organization United For Ukraine. All items collected will be flown to Poland later this week and must be received by noon on Wednesday, March 23.
“This short timeline is to ensure the supplies are organized and packed in time for the flight to Poland, where non-government organizations (NGOs) will distribute to people in need,” states a press release by the municipality.
MD peace officers will then be delivering the donations to the main collection site in Edmonton by Wednesday evening.
United For Ukraine has been assisting Ukrainians fleeing their country due to the current war taking place in Ukraine against Russian military forces.
Over two million Ukrainians have been reported to have crossed the border into Poland since the conflict began. Many other neighbouring countries have also seen a mass migration of refugees fleeing the war.
The province-wide collection is being organized by former premier Ed Stelmach and former MLA Thomas Lukaszuk, with the help of the Canadian Polish Historical Society.
Polish Airlines LOT has donated the use of a plane, while Shell Canada has donated the jet fuel needed to make the flight, according to information provided by the MD.
Donation items needed
It is important to note that only specific items will be accepted at the donation drop-off locations.
• First Aid Supplies
• Pain Medications
• Baby and Adult Diapers
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Deodorants
• Oral Hygiene Products
• Outdoor Survival Equipment
• New Socks and Underwear
• Walking Canes
• Walkers and Crutches
Donation drop-off locations
The MD has established five drop-off points throughout the municipality that have already begun accepting donations. Donations will only be accepted until noon on Wednesday, March 23.
1. MD Main Office located at 4905-50 Ave. Bonnyville, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
2. Cold Lake South Fire Hall located at 5207-55 St. Cold Lake, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
3. Ardmore School located at 4801-48 St. Ardmore, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4. Iron River School located at Highway 55 Iron River, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
5. Glendon School located at 5016-54 St. Glendon, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Lakeland Catholic Schools will also be collecting items for Ukraine through the MD of Bonnyville initiative.
"Staff, students, and families are asked to drop off donations at their child(dren)'s school between now and Wednesday," reads a Lakeland Catholic School Division press release.
