MERIDIAN, Idaho — A group of volunteers in Idaho is making a direct impact in Ukraine, sending vital humanitarian aid to help those affected by the ongoing war.
The non-profit Idaho Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine has continued successfully since its creation in 2022.
Tanya Petruchok, a lead coordinator for the organization, said they have shipped more than 15,000 boxes of supplies to Ukraine over the years.
With donations collected in Treasure Valley, Idaho Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine receives hygiene products, clothes, food, medical supplies and more similar items necessary for survival.
After donations are received, the volunteers organize items into boxes, which are then shipped to Ukraine and distributed there.
Petruchok said about 50% of the organization's volunteers are from Ukraine and that many of them still have family members and friends living in the warzone.
"We have some refugees that came from Ukraine. I mean, some of them are just been here for about two weeks, and they're here helping, sorting and packing all that stuff," Petruchok told KTVB on Wednesday.
The organizations partners with an international hub in Rivne, Ukraine, that ensure the supplies are delivered to the proper recipients.
The Idaho Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine specifically helps vulnerable groups such as orphanages, refugees of war, and assisted living facilities among others.
"We're trying to reach little people, mothers that lost their sons, mothers that lost their husbands, the kids don't have dads," Petruchok said. "It's very humbling, and it's brings tears to my eyes, because Ukraine is my home, even though I've been in us for over 30 years, Idaho is my home as well. It's just sad to see my people suffering."
The organization has hosted drives for Ukraine annually since 2022, sometimes having multiple successful drives per year.
This week was the only Ukraine donation drive for 2024, but Petruchok said the non-profit will continue help people in need, internationally and locally, for as long as possible.
The organization has volunteer opportunities year-round, as they are already currently helping other communities apart from Ukraine.