Rick Guigbeuer is one of the many residents of Ekiren who has a warm heart towards refugees. “It’s the least we can give them,” he says. † © Mark Waters
There is great solidarity with refugees from Ukraine. This is also the case in Icrin, where a solidarity meal was held last week and a fundraising drive for emergency aid was held. Coordination in the hands of the Eva Center.
A group takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from 1-5 p.m., including clothing, shoes, baby essentials, and bed linen. “For furniture, we refer to the thrift store,” says Hilda, one of the volunteers at the Eva Center. The promotion is only a few days away and the space in the front building of Veltwijck Castle is already full. “You obviously feel in solidarity with the Ukrainians,” Hilda says. “They are not the outcasts that people bring here. Find brand new bedding, baby dresses, baby seat, good quality.”
Fundraising is one of the “Solidarity Ekeren-Ukraine” initiatives, held in the heart of the Eva Centre. “One of our team members, An Holemans, is committed to the initiative,” says Fri Vanlooy of the Eva Center. “We take care of coordination and liaison with the district administration, making the space available to us.” For food and grooming products, Fri stands for Eva Meeting Center, Schutstraat 10, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can go here with dry foods and products with a storage time of at least 3 months.
Part of the collection is dedicated to Ukrainians in Ekeren. Another part is sent to the war zone or to refugee shelters. The working group is still looking for volunteers to ensure the entire campaign runs smoothly. There is a need for Russian and Ukrainian interpreters, teachers who may or may not be retired, drivers for transporting people and goods… “Anyone who wants to support us is welcome,” says Fri Vanlooy.
Hilda and Guido showing off parts of a camouflage suit. The bringer wants to send his belongings to Ukraine. † © Mark Waters
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