Pope sends medicine, generators and food to Ukraine in freezing winter

Loading up lorries - Image by Cardinal Krajewski

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Leo has arranged for the delivery of 80 electricity generators, along with medicine and food supplies, to Ukraine.

During the General Audience in the Pope Paul VI Hall last Wednesday, Pope Leo said: "consequences of the bombings have once again begun to strike energy infrastructure."

The Pope expressed his gratitude for the many initiatives of solidarity that have emerged in numerous dioceses, especially in Poland. That appeal has now been translated into action through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, which, at the Pope's request, has sent three lorries carrying 80 electricity generators to the country.

Many bishops, aware of the suffering caused by the war, have appealed for assistance to help address the hardships brought about by the intense cold gripping Ukraine. Night-time temperatures are falling to minus 15 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures range between minus 10 and minus 12 degrees. Many people have been forced to leave their homes in order to find warmth in heated shelters where, thanks to the generators, they are also able to receive a hot meal.

The vehicles departed from the Basilica of Saint Sophia in Rome, the church of Ukrainians in Italy, and have already reached their destinations in Fastiv and Kyiv, areas that have been particularly affected by recent attacks. Military operations also took place overnight in Odessa and Kharkiv, where a 10-year-old child lost his life. War shows no mercy, not even towards the youngest. In this climate of fear and violence, every gesture of solidarity offers a moment of relief to those who have been living with the trauma of conflict for four years.

Alongside the generators, thousands of medicines have been sent to Ukraine, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, supplements and melatonin, which is especially in demand as it helps people sleep amid ongoing fear and constant stress.

The Dicastery for the Service of Charity, which is headed by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, has also announced that preparations are underway for the departure of another lorry carrying thousands of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antihypertensive medicines and various food supplies. Once the aid reaches the country, distribution is organised through the parish networks of the different dioceses.

This outpouring of generosity has been made possible thanks to the Banco Farmaceutico, a network of pharmaceutical companies, the Procter & Gamble group and - Cardinal Krajewski emphasises, expressing thanks on behalf of the Pope - all people of goodwill who continue to support those who suffer.