Responding to the crisis in Ukraine - FAQs

1. What can I do to help?

2. How can I check if I am donating to a registered charity?

3. Where does my donation go?

4. How do I offer accommodation to refugees?

5. Where can I find information about coming to Ireland from Ukraine?

6. How can I volunteer with an International NGO?

If you require more information, please contact ronan(at)dochas.ie

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What can I do to help?

We ask that you donate cash to legitimate organisations rather than physical items. Donating money allows organisations to source relief items locally, ensuring quality and quick delivery to those in need and supports the local economy. It also allows those responding to the crisis to buy items based on need limiting waste and prevents further pressure on transport links.

How can I check if I am donating to a registered charity?

You can search the Register of Charities here.

Where does my donation go?

Right now, aid agencies/many Dóchas members have people on the ground in the countries bordering Ukraine where the majority of refugees from Ukraine are crossing into (mainly Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Moldova). These teams will be speaking to local aid organisations, charities and local authorities in each location to understand what the needs are and what support is needed in the short and medium term. The support any individual will need will vary, but in general the main need in the short term will be cash so that person or family can move freely, buy what they need and have a small bit of security for the next part of their journey. Then when that person or family has been relocated somewhere in Europe supports through local government structures and community organisations will be needed – such as access to schools, healthcare, mental health support, language supports and employment opportunities.

Back in Ukraine, many Dóchas members are also talking to the local authorities in cities and towns in many parts of Ukraine to understand what support they need right now and these agencies will be working mainly through established Ukrainian NGOs and aid agencies who can access people and areas safely. The support Dóchas members will provide here ranges from sending in medical supplies from neighbouring countries, to providing technical support around child protection, support with family reunification or support contacting family members in Ukraine, supporting local and national agencies with cash support to keep their programmes running and to allow them respond to expanding needs.

How do I offer accommodation to refugees?

You can register your vacant property or room with the Irish Red Cross here.

For more information on accommodating Ukrainian refugees, please click here.

Where can I find information about coming to Ireland from Ukraine?

You can find more information about coming to Ireland from Ukraine on the Citizens Information website here, or on the Dept. of Justice website here. 

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has set up information and support hotlines for persons fleeing Ukraine in different countries. Click here for more details.

How can I volunteer with an International NGO?

International NGOs do not normally take volunteers to humanitarian crises unless you have very specific knowledge and experience.

Taking action by donating cash to an aid agencies is incredibly beneficial as it allows staff, who have been specifically trained to respond quickly and efficiently to crises, to continue their work.