
Lorry loading in Watford
On April 18th, our dedicated team of volunteers gathered at our depot in Watford, Hertfordshire, embarking on a monumental task: loading 9 tonnes of humanitarian aid bound for Belarus. Historically, we have relied on road transport, a week-long journey to Minsk. However, the recent geopolitical turmoil caused by Russia’s war with Ukraine has rendered this route precarious and unreliable.
After extensive deliberations and exploring various alternatives, we decided to send the aid via seafreight container—a first for our organisation. While we knew this method would extend the delivery time, we believed it would encounter fewer obstacles. This decision marked the beginning of a challenging yet ultimately successful journey.
Despite the hurdles, our team’s resilience and problem-solving skills shone through. After nearly two months, on June 11th, the container finally arrived in Minsk- watch the film here. Our dedicated volunteers in Belarus promptly unloaded the aid, readying it for distribution to Jewish and non-Jewish communities across the country.
- Aid being loaded in Watford
- Lorry loading in Watford
the heart of our mission: volunteer efforts
This project is entirely volunteer-led, showcasing the incredible dedication of our UK-based volunteers. Their efforts include collecting, delivering, unpacking, sorting, and repacking donations of clothes, shoes, toys, household items, bedding, linens, arts and crafts materials, and small furniture items. These donations are a lifeline for so many in Belarus, significantly impacting individual lives and community centres.

The loading team in the UK
rising costs and innovative solutions
Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, the cost of sending aid to Belarus has more than doubled. This financial strain forced us to seek new funding methods. We now sell items unsuitable for aid on our top-rated eBay shop. Additionally, we are seeking donations of pre-loved designer goods and vintage memorabilia. These sales help fund transportation and support our on-ground projects in Belarus.

Humanitarian aid arriving in Minsk
how you can help
We greatly appreciate all donations, but we especially welcome:
- High-end ladies’ new and vintage designer clothing, including shoes, silk scarves, and handbags
- Good quality men’s shoes, designer wear, swim shorts, and accessories
- Costume and fine jewellery
- Hallmarked silver and gold
- Porcelain and ceramics
- Memorabilia and curios
- Judaica
- Vintage watches and fountain pens
If you have items to donate, please contact us or send photos to [email protected] or telephone 07702 606409 to arrange a collection. Your contribution will help raise vital funds to develop the abilities and skills of socially and economically disadvantaged communities in the Former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.
Your support is invaluable. Together, we can continue to make a significant impact on the lives of many. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.