Regional news organisations across the UK have been assisting with aid to Ukraine with ongoing appeals and campaigns.
Alongside national campaigns which the Society has highlighted, regional papers have also been campaigning and showing their support with several papers hitting targets and hailing the support of their readers.
The Portsmouth-based News
The paper announced earlier this week that thanks to the efforts of its readers, an office load of military kit supplied would be shipped out to Ukrainians fighting on the frontline against Russia.
Worth an estimated £60,000, donations including medical supplies, boots, sleeping bags, clothing and body armour were sent to the News offices following a campaign by the paper alongside Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt.
Editor Mark Waldron said: “We’re humbled by the efforts that people went to for the donations. The office was full of gear and we hope it proves helpful to the Ukrainians in their hour of need.”
Former defence secretary Ms Mordaunt had spoken to four Ukrainian MPs about the campaign.
She told The News: “They had heard about the kit campaign and were immensely grateful to everyone who had contributed. The time people took to dig out supplies and get it to us will result in lives being saved.”
Newsquest #ThereWithUkraine campaign
Newsquest titles turned blue and yellow in solidary with Ukraine last Thursday 17 March and alongside the striking front pages and posters, the publisher pledged 5p from newspaper sales across dozens of its titles to the Red Cross DEC Ukraine Humanitarian appeal.
Newsquest has also set up a #JustGiving page which has so far surpassed £11,000 thanks to the generosity of readers.
Eastern Daily Press Aid for Ukraine Appeal
Launched on 9 March 2022, the Eastern Daily Press’ Aid for Ukraine Appeal has raised more than £11,000 for the Red Cross’ DEC Ukraine Appeal.
David Powles, Editor of the EDP said: “We’ve all looked on in horror at the actions of Russia against Ukraine and its people and in the last few weeks we’ve seen so many fantastic examples of people doing what they can to help.
“However, I have no doubt many of us feel somewhat powerless in our ability to assist, therefore I hope that by calling on EDP readers to support the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) fund we can all contribute according to our situation.
“”All of this money goes directly to the key charities who are on the scene working tirelessly to help those who have lost so much.
“I know times are tough for so many at the moment, but I hope our readers can do their bit to support, just as they have always done in the past.”
Reach plc titles
Reach plc brands including HullLive and BirminghamLive have also continued to highlight the efforts of their communities to support Ukraine.
Hull Live has highlighted the fundraising efforts of local firefighters to raise money for Ukraine alongside appeals by the #Hull4Ukraine collective which has come together to co-ordinate the local campaign and appeal for specific items.
BirminghamLive meanwhile has kept readers informed of an upcoming concert in aid of Ukraine that will take place next Tuesday 29 March. Those taking part in the concert include Ed Sheeran and Camila Cabello.
