The head of a schools federation of 13 primaries is driving off to the Poland-Ukrainian border on a mercy mission to deliver aid to refugees from the Russian invasion.
Lee Mason-Ellis the chief executive of The Pioneer Academy will take much needed supplies to refugees and to transport some of the displaced people to wherever they need to go en route back to the UK.
He will leave the UK on on March 24 in his Land Rover.
Parents from his schools are helping out – including
- The Crescent Primary School, Selhurst, Croydon
- South Norwood Primary, Crowther Road
- Stewart Fleming Primary School, Witham Road, Anerley
- Broadmead Primary School, Sydenham Road, Croydon
- Red Hill Primary, Red Hill, Chislehurst
- Burnt Oak Junior, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup
- Chatsworth Infants, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup
- Belvedere Junior and Infants
- Woodcote Primary in Coulsdon
- Edenbridge Primary in Kent
- Moulsecoomb Primary in Brighton
Funds raised from a crowdfunding page will help buy much needed aid, as well as helping to cover some of the costs.
Supplies he and friend Billy Kemp, who works in the City, intend to buy include first aid equipment, sanitary items, emergency blankets, toothbrushes, toothpaste, baby-wipes and flashlights.
Any leftover donations will be given to Unicef Ukraine Emergency, supporting Ukraine’s Children.
Mr Mason Ellis said: “We all want to protect children from the worst things the world has to offer. As the conflict in Ukraine has worsened it’s clear that many adults and children in the region are in need.
“I also believe that children learn a huge amount from watching what others do. I feel a responsibility to lead by example and do what I can to help those who are suffering. I hope that by taking action, some of the sadness children in our schools have been feeling can be replaced by a positive and determined outlook, as they will know that we can all make a difference. If you are able to make a donation, no matter how small, I would greatly appreciate it.”
Mr Kemp said: “Everyday I’m seeing families without their father, and the elderly being pushed out of their homes with nothing more than a bag. With nowhere to go, not knowing where their next meal will be, or what lies ahead in a very uncertain future. Families torn apart has fuelled me to do something, no matter how small. I cannot and will not stand by and watch and do nothing!”
A Crowdfunder page has been set up where people can donate, which can be accessed here:
www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/a-