More than two years ago, I noticed a massive gap. There still weren't proper frameworks or systems in place to match the dire needs of the recently distraught. Flocks of children, elders, couples, women and men were flowing into the city from Ukraine. All having left behind a lot more than the average person can imagine.
Winter was closing in and the municipality was only able to hastily place people in shelters, but not much more than that.
It was nothing less than expected since this was the first time the responsibilities were placed on the municipality rather than the usual combined effort of NGOs, experts, municipality, and government. The chaos was more than palpable.
For those who have been following my blog for a longer time may remember the posts I made of running around the city on my bike. The posts of me giving away clothes, medicine, pet food, baby diapers, jackets etc.
It reached a point where I was receiving donations from locals and other cities that I had to keep track of them in kilograms and not per piece. Everything from oranges to toys were being given.
The thing was, I had noticed my community had a need for essential items, things that are often taken absolutely for granted, but had no way of receiving them nor buying them.
Recognizing these unmet needs, I took action:
- Compiled a list of essential items needed in the community
- Rode through the vast city of Almere on my bike, connecting online and in-person
- Procured donations, from winter clothing and baby bottles to pet food, books, and medicines
- Distributed these items directly to those in need
Some of these things I recorded on the blockchain. They seem like a distant memory but are the reality of my life and everyone that benefitted from it.
Some HIVE-rs also donated items.
This effort became the foundation of my "𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗲" movement.
This was my first community effort. Since then, I have done quite a lot more. I became an advisor to municipality boards, got titled as an expert in the crisis, and had the opportunity to represent the Ukrainians living in the city.
Was it all smooth? Not at all.
I faced a lot of racism. A lot. I do till today. I faced personal hardships that challenged my voluntary efforts. I faced my own mental challenges. But I persevere. I faced isolation by people of influence and was segregated and taunted by those who wanted to make money and/or fame.
On November 5, 2022, with vital support from 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘢 at 𝗩𝗹𝘂𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗪𝗲𝗿𝗸, I expanded our efforts through a Telegram group.
This platform allowed:
- Seamless connection between donors, volunteers, and those in need
- A growing network to access and distribute essential supplies
Today, I close this chapter for a good reason
As of today, we are winding down this project. Why? Because the community is moving beyond survival mode. This shift is a testament to our resilience and progress—proof that we are stronger together.
I feel like I'm losing something very precious by closing this down, but at the same time the feeling of winning is much higher, because of what shutting this down means.
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