As winter grips Ukraine, temperatures drop, making it bitterly cold for those without power. Throughout the past year, Russian bombings have targeted power infrastructure in the majority of regions still held by Ukraine, hitting power plants and electricity distribution and transmission facilities. This means many people who have remained in their homes lack heat to keep warm. The 3.7 million Ukrainians who are internally displaced face similar challenges this winter, as well. These blankets can be lifesaving, providing warmth and comfort, especially to those most vulnerable—the young, elderly, and pets.

Crisis in Ukraine:

Russia has not eased its attacks against the people of Ukraine. The United Nations says 20 of 24 Ukrainian-held regions have experienced attacks on their power infrastructure over the past year. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as -5 degrees Fahrenheit, making it dangerously cold for those without electricity or gas in the wake of these attacks.

Pets who belong to families fleeing war-torn Ukraine, are facing dehydration, hypothermia, injury, disease and illness as they travel to escape the frontlines. Many who are fleeing refuse to leave behind their four-legged family members, and they need supplies to make sure their pet stays warm. Unfortunately, many families are forced to leave loved pets behind due to circumstances beyond their control. These pets end up in shelters or are found on the streets and then are taken to a shelter. 

Key Facts:

• 3.7 million people are displaced throughout Ukraine*
• 14.6 million Ukrainians are in need of humanitarian aid*
• In 2023, GreaterGood was able to send 36,000 blankets to families in need
• 1,000 blankets were sent to shelters for displaced cats and dogs in 2023
• 5,000 blankets were sent to Ukrainian toddlers and babies in 2023
• Between December 2023 and the early fall of 2024, more than 11,000 blankets were distributed
  
• Blankets are manufactured in Ukraine - which helps combat unemployment 

How to Help:

Help provide warmth and comfort to those in need. Wool blankets are being purchased from Ukraine to support suppliers and staff, and are being sent to Ukrainians who need them most.

Blankets being handed out in Ukraine.

These 4.5 ft. x 6.5 ft. wool blankets are perfect for retaining body heat when it is needed most. Each blanket can also double as an emergency coat or single size bedroll. The blankets will also be given to pets in need of extra warmth and protection from the cold. Wool can soak up a good deal of its weight in moisture without feeling damp and because of that, they can be used in outdoor shelters - even when wet the wool blankets will hold their warmth and keep pets warm!

There is also the option to provide a baby blanket to keep the young ones warm and comforted. By giving something as simple as a blanket, you can make an impact. Your gift keeps children, the elderly, pets and families warm as they defend their country, their homes, and their loved ones during the coldest winter months. 

Pet blankets are also vital to keep pets warm and provide comfort in unfamiliar places with unfamiliar people and sounds. Families with pets appreciate that their fur babies have not been forgotten about. GreaterGood is also working with veterinarians without borders who use blankets to keep sick or injured pets warm and provide comfort... animals that have had surgery- including spaying and neutering will also receive blankets.  Every blanket makes a difference in the life of a pet. 

Stories From Ukraine

December 2024: Greater Good Charities continues to work with implementing partners to distribute blankets - along with relief kits - to Ukrainians, many of whom are in dangerous areas not always reached by aid workers. One partner said, "Some have received nothing because of their proximity to the conflict zones. These items are greatly appreciated!"

On December 10, more than 2,000 blankets were delivered to the partner's local warehouse. Three days prior, they'd delivered all the remaining hygiene kits they had on hand. They said, in all, more than 5,500 people were helped by the latest batch of kit and blanket distributions.

Nov 2024: We have purchased another 10,000 blankets to be distributed in the coming months, either individually or within a hygiene kit. The blankets have already been making their way to those in need at recent distribution events, with our founder and CEO Tim Kunin among those handing out these essentials.

Feb 2024: Warm wool blankets were brought to Inna, the owner of a shelter, where there are more than 100 dogs and cats that were taken from the front-line territories. The dogs and cats quickly curled up on their new blankets donated thanks to your support. 

                 

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2023: These sweet pets, and the people taking care of them, are so grateful for the supplies that have been sent to them. Some families stop by at donation pick up locations to grab blankets and other supplies for their pets to keep them warm. Some pets are staying in shelters or rescues, and this sweet dog is one of them. He received a blanket to keep him warm this chilly season until he finds a forever home.

July 2023, an office in a key area of Ukraine is used as a clothing hub where new bedding, clothes, toys and blankets are given to those in need. The foundation that uses the office employs more than 10 women migrants who were left homeless to do the war. In one Saturday alone they greeted 200 people that were in need of essentials.

In 2022 blankets were sent to Ukraine (area name removed for safety concerns) where 80% of a village was destroyed, and the people went without power - blankets were a vital gift given. 

Other important information:

• You will not receive a shipment from this purchase. We will contact the receiving organizations on your behalf.
• You will be charged all required taxes for your location. Save your receipt and consult your tax professional to determine if you're able to claim this purchase as a tax-deductible donation expense.
• GreaterGood has ultimate authority and discretion with regard to the distribution of Benefit Buy contributions based upon what the receiving organization needs the most. We will always contribute products of equal or greater value. Contributions may be distributed as cash or may be used to help other charity partners depending on the greatest need.
  
• GreaterGood is proud to help provide these goods for people and pets in need on your behalf. We couldn't do it without your support -- thank you!

*According to the United Nations.

**Some village, town and city names have been removed due to safety concerns.