Masons moved by Ukraine aid talk

More recently John and Jan, who herself overcame cancer while setting up and running the charity, have not only made collections of food, clothing, toiletries and many other items for the people of Ukraine, but actually delivered them to those in need. 

Driving their van from Lochailort to Ukraine they had to overcome many difficulties, filling in endless paperwork to cross borders before finally getting to various locations in Ukraine. Their trips have seen them come under fire from Russian missiles and drones, the most recent visit taking them to the front line city of Kherson, which is under almost constant artillery bombardment. 

The couple often found themselves having to take cover in basements of wrecked buildings, and one of these makeshift shelters was full of young children, whose only light was provided by torches as electricity had been cut off.

John said during his talk: “These children had nothing to distract them from their horrendous surroundings, so I asked the soldiers who accompanied us if they knew where we could get supplies, such as colouring in books, pencils, jotters”. 

The soldiers said they knew of a warehouse a few kilometres away but it would too dangerous to get to them.  However, John eventually persuaded them and a semi-armoured military vehicle took him and Jan to an ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ of school supplies which they then delivered back to the children. 

Being aware that many parts of Ukraine had little or no electricity due to Russian attacks on the power networks, the couple also took a small diesel generator to provide some power, mainly so people could charge their mobile phones as they tried to stay in touch with friends and relatives. 

He said: “We set up the generator and people flocked to charge their phones. Someone brought a small gazebo and erected it around the generator to give some protection from the weather. Others brought small amounts of diesel fuel with them to help keep it going.  

“In all of this there was no trouble, no arguments and everyone worked together so that the maximum number of people could benefit from it.”  

John had many more stories about the conditions in Ukraine that so moved the Masonic audience that they added to the £1,000 they had already donated, raising an extra £300 just from those in the room. 

Master of the Lodge, Peter Kelly said: “Everyone was glued to every word John said.  It is amazing what they do with very little regard for their own safety in getting directly to the people who need their help. We are honoured to help in some way.”