Cork-based charity founder in Ukraine as efforts ramp up to deliver aid

Fiona Corcoran from The Greater Chernobyl Cause will spend time at villages in Ukraine devastated by unrest where many refugee families have escaped to. Picture: David Creedon

The founder of a Cork-based charity is in Ukraine this week as efforts ramp up to deliver aid to thousands of war victims.

Fiona Corcoran from the Greater Chernobyl Cause has been tending to people impacted by the atrocities of unrest on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

She is currently visiting injured Ukrainian soldiers at a local military hospital as well as baby homes in the city’s capital, Kyiv. 

Ms Corcoran will also be spending time at villages devastated by unrest where many refugee families have escaped to.

She said the scale of the pain and suffering she has witnessed reflects much of what we see on our television screens. 

“The people of Ireland have put their hands in their pockets,” she said. 

“I cannot thank you enough for your generous support yet so much more is required.” 

A recently-acquired combi van has offered the charity a means to transport food, clothes, generators, and other essential equipment across hundreds of miles of war-torn territory. 

However, families continue to struggle without shelter, water, and even the most basic amenities.

Fiona Corcoran on one of her many visits to Chernobyl.

“Each day, the needs grow greater,” Ms Corcoran said. 

“Until we can see an end to the fighting, thousands of vulnerable families will continue to live in appalling conditions, fearing what tomorrow may bring.” 

The charity is currently seeking donations to allow its work in Ukraine to continue.

“If you feel you could support our efforts once more then it could make such a difference to those living on the very edge of existence. 

"Any donation — however small — will be welcome.” 

Ms Corcoran is also heading for Prybirsk which is close to Chernobyl and just outside of the exclusion zone.

The Cork woman has been desperately trying to ensure there is proper care for nursing home residents in the area. 

This is in response to requests for speciality beds, mobility aids, as well as kitchen and sanitation equipment. 

The most recent acquisition was an ambulance, which will be used to transport patients to Kyiv for treatment. 

Of the 30 residents who live at the residence, half of them are bedridden.

“There is a lot of work that still needs to be done,” Ms Corcoran said.

For more, see greaterchernobylcause.ie.