St Peter’s School raise £12,000 for Ukraine minibuses

At the start of the Ukrainian conflict, St Peter's School took the decision that all fundraising in Chapel should be given to the Red Cross to assist their work in Ukraine and to local charities taking supplies out to those who have been displaced by the conflict. 

Thanks to the support from the whole school community, St Peter's raised well over £12,000 and purchased three minibuses for Canoe for Ukraine, a York based charity which has been supporting people on the Polish border and helping those who wish to leave Ukraine. The buses are purchased, kitted out in the company’s garage and then filled with goods before being sent out to Ukraine. The original appeal was to raise £4000 to buy one minibus which was achieved within 72 hours. Yesterday the drivers from Canoe for Ukraine came into school and loaded up the buses with donations of items such as nappies, baby milk formula, toiletries, medical kits and warm blankets.

Pupils gathered to wave off the buses and the three minibuses will be on their way to Poland and Ukraine on Monday morning.

Mr Jeremy Walker, Head Master at St Peter’s School said: “It was inspirational to meet the team taking the minibuses, loaded with donations, out to Ukraine. The support from the whole school community has been very generous, reflecting the way in which events have touched the hearts of so many. I wish all involved a safe journey and thank all who have contributed to such a good cause.”

Reverend Daniel Jones, who coordinated the appeal, said: “I’ve been heartened to see just how much our School community has wanted to support the humanitarian work currently being done in Ukraine. Seeing the pupils gathered around three fully-laden minibuses today has shown very clearly what amazing work they have been doing to raise funds and collect provisions. We wish every blessing to those who will be driving out to the Ukrainian border this weekend.”