February 24, 2025, marked the third brutal year of war in Ukraine and the unimaginable violence which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Toledo Helps Ukraine (THU) continues to exemplify the resilience, efficiency and strategic resourcefulness that defines both the American and Ukrainian spirit. In the fall of 2024, THU shipped 24 pallets of humanitarian aid and medical supplies valued at more than $260,000 to Ukraine. The pallets arrived securely and are being distributed directly to the Ukrainian people.
With the new administration’s strong focus on America’s prosperity and interests, THU demonstrates how humanitarian efforts can align with national priorities.
“By repurposing decommissioned, expired (under CDC and federal guidelines), or surplus supplies that would otherwise go unused, such as medical supplies and fire equipment, we prevent waste while delivering life-saving aid worldwide,” said Alona Matchenko, president, Toledo Helps Ukraine.
THU Recipients of Humanitarian Aid from the Northwest Ohio Community The generosity of the northwest Ohio community continues to provide critical support to those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Among the recipients of humanitarian aid facilitated by Toledo Helps Ukraine are Ukrainian servicemembers, displaced families and communities in need.
Ukrainian Soldiers: THU Aid has reached those on the front lines, offering not only essential supplies but also a powerful reminder that they are not alone. One message of gratitude reads, “Thank you! This means so much to our family. We are not alone in this trial. May God bless you!” Families in Rural Areas: In the village of Mlynok, Kirovohrad Oblast, THU humanitarian assistance has been delivered to local residents struggling with the impact of war.
Families of Captured Soldiers: Among those supported is Olga Pushkar, a mother whose son is currently held as a prisoner of war in a camp in Russia’s Altai region. Despite the hardship, she remains steadfast, strengthened by the solidarity and care shown by donors.
Internally Displaced Persons: Many who have been forced to flee their homes in Ukraine due to conflict have found relief through THU’s aid efforts, receiving food, clothing and other necessities.
Toledo Helps Ukraine continues to provide direct assistance to the Ukrainian people through its partnership with Rakivska Evangelical Church in Kremenchuk and Ukrainian volunteer Vlad Chernyayev who transports and hand delivers packages and donations from THU directly to the Ukrainian people on a weekly basis. THU distributed $18,000 in funding directly to the humanitarian, boots-on-the-ground work of the numerous volunteers in Ukraine. The volunteers use the funding to buy essential items that they deliver weekly throughout war-torn Ukraine.
Through strong partnerships and the commitment of the northwest Ohio community, THU continues to ensure that critical aid reaches those who need it most, offering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
“Our commitment to supporting those in need while maintaining a lean, effective operation speaks for itself,” said Matchenko. “Our nonprofit’s overhead rate remains under 15 percent, less than half of the 35 percent considered acceptable in the nonprofit sector. This is a testament to our ability to maximize partnerships, leverage donated goods and optimize logistics.
“THU proves that it is possible to support global humanitarian needs while upholding America’s priorities,” said Matchenko. “Like Ukraine, we believe in bravery, ingenuity and making the most of every opportunity. Toledo Helps Ukraine will assist Ukraine until they reach a just and lasting peace.”
More information and donation links can be found at 4ua.org.
