A short time after the beginning of Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine, the Global Ukraine Rail Task Force set up a targeted donation campaign to help the Iron Family (the workers of the Ukrainian rail sectors) and their families.

In the course of several months, more than 100.000€ were collected thanks to the generosity of the donors. The proceeds will be used by the Trade Union of Railwaymen and Transport Construction of JSC Ukrainian Railway to purchase 5000 food packages that will be shipped and delivered to railway workers and their families at the frontline and newly liberated territories of Ukraine. Because of recurrent supply issues due to the war, Ukrainians at the frontline go sometimes hungry. Therefore, food packages are truly vital to their wellbeing.

The food packages will consist of: flour, pasta, rice, salt corn and wheat grits, oil, canned fish and meat, pate, tea, condensed milk, sugar and biscuits.

“Ukraine’s railways are indispensable in keeping Ukraine running and staying connected to the rest of the world. This is why Russia cynically targets the rail infrastructure and workers. We hope that our help, although insignificant compared to the suffering of the rail workers who keep trains running, will bring them a bit of relief and joy.”

Jolene Molitoris, Chair of the Global Ukraine Rail Task Force

“With the beginning of the war, when planes were not flying, and dozens of road bridges were destroyed, it was the railways that evacuated millions of Ukrainians. Trains with a capacity of 560 people were carrying 2000 passengers each. The railway workers evacuated people under fire. 312 of our rail workers paid for it with their lives, and 685 were wounded. We are grateful for the recognition of our brave people’s work and support.”

Olexiy Semerun, Chairman of the Trade Union of Railwaymen and Transport Construction Workers of Ukraine

The Global Ukraine Rail Task Force would like to wholeheartedly thank the generous donors who contributed, especially the global charity United Way’s “United for Ukraine” fund and the Norwegian rail infrastructure manager Bane NOR.

In addition, the Global Ukraine Rail Task Force would like to thank the wonderful people of the Task Force’s partner WE AID (Ukraine programme of United Way’s German branch Phineo) for their tireless efforts and dedication in helping us run this donation campaign and making sure that the proceeds reach the Ukrainian railway workers.

“We know the vital role of the railway in Ukraine and how many lives it could save. Therefore, we are relieved that WE AID was able to provide rapid aid to the Iron Family.”

Jan Strecker, Managing director of WE AID

Remember that you can still donate (in GBP, USD and EUR) on WE AID’s website to bring further help to the Iron Family!