MORE than 40 people from across Ukraine have now received help to start a new life in Haslemere, Petersfield and the surrounding villages thanks to the support of a loving community.

Facebook group To A Loving Home – which aims to help those who have had their lives turned upside down by the Russian invasion – is organised by Liphook mum-of-four Jessica Heagren.

It gives people in the community the chance to make donations ahead of Ukrainian families setting up home in Haslemere, Petersfield and the surrounding villages.

A dedicated Haslemere Facebook group – Haslemere for Ukraine – is being run by volunteer Jo Mackay.

It aims to provide support, a home and more for Ukrainian refugees.

Jo said: “Haslemere for Ukraine is made up of hosts and those wishing to help those fleeing the war in Ukraine in this area.

“The group is entirely run by volunteers and is designed to ensure the Ukrainians arriving here have the support they need.

“We have volunteers running face-to-face English lessons.

“We also have a social coffee and cake meet up each week.

“Every child has received a school bag full of school supplies along with a hand-knitted teddy in the Ukrainian colours – all made by local women.

“We also have a team of volunteer drivers to help with transport, have distributed SIM cards and have another group coordinating assistance with public transport.

“We have a 40-page document designed to provide all the information host families need, which includes how to access items such as clothing and household items.

“The local community support is incredible and the time and effort people have given to help Ukrainians arriving in the area is so heart-warming.

“We aren’t just about physical donations but more about the practical help and support when Ukrainians arrive here, like creating social networks for them, language lessons, and advice with benefits and transport.”

Anyone who would like to get involved and offer assistance to Haslemere for Ukraine should send an email to [email protected] for further details.

Haslemere for Ukraine is an offshoot of To A Loving Home – which has been inundated with donations including items such as clothes, beds, mirrors, tricycles and televisions to help people settle and feel comfortable in the UK as they escape their war-torn country.

Recent donations have included running shoes and a guitar.

Jessica said: “We have been so delighted with the support from the local community.

“It’s so lovely to see that people are keen to help our Ukrainian friends get settled and start a new life in the UK.

“We hope these donations are helping to make life that little bit easier for those who need it in these difficult times.”

To get involved in the To A Loving Home group, email [email protected]