We’re not powerless. We small people CAN make a dramatic difference to Ukraine.

In April I bought a 4-Wheel Drive and a ferry ticket, filled it with equipment, medical and other humanitarian aid and drove it to Ukraine.  There I saw the difference that even we small people can make.

Like most people I’ve felt quite powerless. Useless to do anything useful. But I also knew that many there are losing limbs, suffering life-changing injuries. And dying.

Arriving on 24th April I sheltered from a drone - none killed that night.  I visited a cemetery – in a comparatively 'un-bombed' town in West Ukraine - that’s overflowing with the graves of over 1500 people, killed defending their homes. 

I shed tears with a woman at her son’s grave. I saw weeping, grieving sisters, widows parents of those killed.  And wondered at the idiocy of those who perpetrate this crime against people like you and me.

And I was moved by the roadside pedestrians - young and old - who cheered and waved when they saw UK number plates.  Childishly, I felt special. They were cheering me.  ME! 

But prior to my trip, I had doubts that my donations may be 'lost' to the Ukraine black-market equivalent of the Private Walkers (Dad's Army) of this world. So I funded this delivery journey myself. 

And before going, I connected with Pick-ups-For-Peace who’ve facilitated 26 previous vehicle and aid deliveries. With 869 vehicles so far. P4P began 3 years ago. And after this trip, I’m in no doubt as to the charity’s integrity of dealing and good motives to enable people like us to channel goodwill to where it's needed most. NO paid staff! All volunteers. So 100% of donations go to those who need it most.

Thus I feel that I can now legitimately ask others who feel as I do to also donate.  So I’ve committed to two further journeys this year. And hopefully four. But will need your serious help. Please?

Right now, their absolute priorities are Electric Generators (about £1600), Powerbanks (from about £20 upwards) and of course, 4-wheel drive vehicles, Off-road tyres can cost about £460 per pair.

But I do realise that in 2026, for many of us, times are really difficult. Finances are tight. Though for now, we live in comparative peace.

But Europe is a small space. And Ukraine is effectively our doorstep-neighbour. This war cannot be lost. Will you help?

Please email or phone me if you feel able and want to know more.

Every ounce of our help is so greatly valued by the Ukrainians. And I’m incredibly grateful for any help you can give.

ahsimpo@gmail.com 07810880858