Gaan The Distance For Ukraine: Crowdfunding target exceeded in just three days

The Gaan The Distance For Ukraine appeal has surpassed its £6,500 fundraising target in just three days in an outstanding display of support and generosity by the Orkney public.

Since going live on Friday morning, the appeal’s JustGiving page has been inundated by donations and messages of support.

Gaan The Distance For Ukraine is a collaborative effort by The Orcadian and McAdie & Reeve, aiming to personally deliver at least an arctic lorry load of vital supplies from Orkney to Ukrainian refugees who have fled their homes in the war-torn country.

As of Sunday evening, the appeal’s total stood at £6,605 but is set to rise further once cash and cheque donations are added.

Any money over the original target is set to go to the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal.

The Orcadian’s sub editor Mark Harcus has been coordinating the campaign in conjunction with McAdie & Reeve and Blythswood Charity.

He thanked the public for the fantastic and heartening response since the appeal was announced on Thursday.

“First and foremost, I want to thank each and every person who has contributed to the appeal thus far, whether that is by donating items, donating money, messages of support, all those who are assisting to collect items and those who have offered themselves up as volunteers.

“Launching an appeal like this can be a bit daunting but the support and solidarity from the public has been truly outstanding and has made us more determined than ever to help the Ukrainian people.

“To break our £6,500 target is just three days is nothing short of exceptional and everyone associated with coordinating this Orkney-wide appeal is truly grateful.”

Monday will also see the announcement of two companies providing collection services for appeal items for those who cannot reach a drop-off point.

And further work is going on to expand collection points across the isles.

As for items, the appeal continues to seek:

• Clothing (small amount)
• Mattresses (in clean good condition)
• Bedding
• Pillows
• Sleeping bags
• Sanitary products
• General toiletries
• Hats, scarves and gloves
• Toys for children
• Blankets
• Baby items such as nappies and wipes
• Baby clothing

Unfortunately, due to regulations, strictly no food, water or medicine can be accepted.

Please can all boxes and bags be labelled with Gaan The Distance for Ukraine appeal.

The collection points that people can drop items off at are:

Kirkwall

• McAdie and Reeve, Hatston
• Orkney Photographic, Bridge Street
• Co-op (Picky store)
• RBS, Victoria Street
• VAO, Anchor Buildings, Bridge Street

Stromness

• Barbara Smith, 24 Faravel, Garage #8, (07592895325 — please make arrangements by phone to ensure garage is accessible)

Dounby

• Co-op