In 2021-22, District 5400 Rotarians generously donated over $50,000 to help Ukrainians impacted by the Russian invasion. The District has worked closely with Zone 26/27 to develop grants to help the Ukrainians. We have completed one grant and are just about the start our second grant.
The first grant we partnered with 7 other Rotary Districts to provide a medical ambulance and the associated equipment to equip the ambulance. Purchased thre emergency backpacks complete with medical equipment for responders. Purchased three medical vein scanners. Total grant was $175,000. This grant was completed in October 2022.- On Feb 3, 2023, the District was awarded a $25,000 grant to help replace windows in homes and apartment that have been blown out in missile attacks. Using clear plastic and PVC, windows can be replaced for approximately $10/window and has excellent insulating properties. This is being done in eastern Ukraine. We will be able to help more than 1,000 families remain in their homes. This grant should be complete by early April 2023.
Additionally, the Rotary Foundation Trustees decided that all donations made, from now until 31 March, to the Turkey/Syria Disaster Response Fund will be used to aid earthquake relief projects. In addition, the Trustees made available more than $125,000 to Rotary districts affected by the earthquake through Disaster Response Grants. If Rotarians would like to donate to this disaster, go to Rotary.org and donate. If there are any questions, please contact Jim Hogge, District Foundation Chair, for assistance.
Rotary's project partner ShelterBox also has an emergency response team assessing the needs in the Turkey/Syria region and how it can respond. That team is communicating with Rotary district leaders. Rotary' service partner Habitat for Humanity International is also working on its response.