Western Massachusetts comes together to help the people of Ukraine

LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) – Western Massachusetts have come together to help the people of Ukraine and neighboring countries.

Communities all throughout the commonwealth have helped in countless ways. Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ludlow have donated supplies for Ukrainian soldiers, civilians, and children.

In March, the church gathered emergency items such as first aid kits, bandages, ready-to-eat food, blankets, and socks. Over 300 boxes of supplies were sent to over six locations in the western part of Ukraine.

The Spirit of Springfield also played a significant role in lending a hand to those in need in Ukraine. They worked with Ukrainian illustrator Max (stassi-uk) Stasiuk who had family fleeing to Italy after the Russian invasion. Stasiuk created children’s books that are based on Bright Nights in Forest Park.

The book “Little Frog and the Bright Lights” was sold throughout the city with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward the Stasuik family, to help the family live in Italy at the time because they did not have work visas in that country.

Community support has allowed emergency responders on the ground to provide lifesaving aid like food, shelter, and water, offering optimism in the face of adversity.