Ukraine's children and families: what can we do to help? Simon Gibbes has some suggestions

Ukraine’s children and families: what can we do to help? Simon Gibbes from World Vision UK has some suggestions and a unifying prayer here.

Children’s lives are being turned upside down by the escalating crisis and unfolding devastation in Ukraine. The UN estimates that over two million people[1] have fled Ukraine and the number is likely to rise as the conflict continues. That’s why we’re asking for churches to respond to the urgent needs of children and their families who have been forced to flee their homes. 

 We’re calling Christians to unite in praying together for the peace of Ukraine. Scripture encourages us that the prayers of Christians matter and that they are effective (James 5:16). You could join us in praying the following prayer: 

Heavenly Father, hear our prayers for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.
Lord, we ask for the peace that transcends understanding for those Ukrainians who are worried, anxious and fearful. Bring comfort to those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Together, we ask for the reconciliation of all who are caught up in this conflict.
Lord, may Your Kingdom come and Your will be done. Amen.

World Vision International[2] – a Christian humanitarian and aid organisation – are in Eastern Europe right now, responding to the crisis. Alongside earnest prayer, we are urging our friends to offer financial support to Ukrainians through our partner World Vision UK[3] which will aid the most vulnerable. Your donation to World Vision UK can help provide children and families with safe spaces, psychosocial support, food and shelter. For further information and to donate, click here.

If you would like to engage your church more widely in this financial appeal, then email the World Vision churches team to find out how your community can get involved. 

Simon Gibbes
Simon is Senior Church and Christian Engagement Specialist at World Vision UK.
Instagram @simongibbes

For more resources and ways to engage with the ongoing crisis, see the links below. 
WORLD VISION
PRAY: YouTube prayer hour from Thursday 3 March, hosted by Krish Kandiah with church leaders from Ukraine and prayers with Jo Saxton and Danielle Strickland; people can still watch and pray https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6t--DuY5SDQ
GIVE: World Vision UK give link Donate to help children in Ukraine | World Vision UK
SIGN: World Vision petition, calling for peace and protection https://www.wvi.org/emergencies/ukraine/petition

SANCTUARY FOUNDATION (a new initiative backed by Krish Kandiah)
SPONSOR: pledge some help
SKILLS: volunteer skills: inc. IT skills, social media, reporting
https://www.sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk/ 

[1] https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-number-of-refugees-reaches-2-million-un-says/a-61048556
[2] https://www.wvi.org/
[3] https://www.worldvision.org.uk/