Students and staff back Ukraine crisis appeal

Food and clothing appeals and cash donations have stepped up at Walsall College in response to the Ukraine crisis appeal.

An on-campus drop off point for food and clothing has exceeded expectations, with items being forwarded to the British Red Cross and excess items to be shared with the Black Country Women’s Aid.

Access to Healthcare students also spearheaded a fundraising drive that utilised their baking, art and craft and wider enterprise skills.  Eight students organised a stall selling cakes, bag charms, knitted yellow and blue ribbons and face painting of the Ukraine flag.  They also encouraged students and staff to share words of support to the people of Ukraine on a message board.

Lucy Marston was one of the students who led on the activities.  She said: “Like all of us, I’m finding the news heartbreaking to watch.  I wanted to do something and after getting together with my class, we realised there was a lot we could do to raise money.

“We each took on certain roles.  The Littleton was kind enough to let Jack, a former pastry chef bake goods in their kitchen.   Zoe knitted 100 ribbons, while Josie made bag charms and Sam provided cakes.  And Rachel, Caroline and Zoe helped out in the run up to and on the day itself.

Lucy added: “Compassion and support for all are key values that all healthcare professionals live by, so it was natural for us to do something like this.  We’re grateful to everyone who got involved.”