Love Letter to Ukraine 🇺🇦💕
An episode in homage to Sofiya's homeland + how to help
What's happening in Ukraine is heartbreaking, and as many listeners know, it's the birthplace of our dear Sofiya Alexandra. Thus, our latest episode is very near and dear…. we are sending a love letter to Sofiya's homeland.
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Sofiya grew up in Odessa, Ukraine, before immigrating to the U.S. in 1994, when she was in middle school. Now, in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sofiya revisits the place she first called home, sharing her favorite memories and cultural touchstones, why it's Ukraine instead of "the Ukraine" (which undermines the country's sovereignty), how this war has made us realize our neglect of other conflict zones, and more.
This episode was inspired by Sofiya's viral Twitter thread, which struck a chord with folks eager to learn more about Ukraine during this harrowing time.
We would like to express our solidarity with the democratic state of Ukraine and our deep sympathies for the millions of people whose lives are being so brutally affected by this terrible conflict, which is sadly bringing death, injury, and separation from loved ones.
Organizations around the world are on the ground in Ukraine and neighboring countries to help those in need with shelter, food, water, and additional aid.
If you’re looking to support the people of Ukraine and aid the country’s refugees, here’s what you can do to help ⬇️
THE UKRAINIAN RED CROSS - Provides loads of humanitarian resources like food, medicine, clothing, and shelter, as well as first aid training in bomb shelters and, in the last few days, 15,000 liters of drinking water to villages in eastern Ukraine.
REVIVED SOLDIERS UKRAINE - This non-profit distributes medical supplies to hospitals in need and assists injured soldiers who need medical help and rehabilitation.
VOICES OF CHILDREN - This charity focuses on helping children recover from the psychological trauma of war.
NOVA UKRAINE - A non-profit dedicated to raising awareness about Ukraine in the U.S. and throughout the world and providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine. They provide civilians with everything from baby food and hygiene products to clothes and household supplies.
SUNFLOWER OF PEACE - Fundraiser for first-aid medical tactical backpacks for paramedics and doctors on the front lines. They claim that one supply-filled backpack can save up to ten lives.
UNICEF - Supports health, nutrition, HIV prevention, education, safe drinking water, sanitation and protection for children and families caught in the crossfire of the crisis in Ukraine.
CARE’S UKRAINE CRISIS FUND - Aiming to reach 4 million with immediate aid and recovery, including food, water, hygiene kits, support services, and cash assistance. This organization prioritizes women and girls, families, and the elderly.
🚨Translators also URGENTLY needed🚨
You can sign up for Translators Without Borders to help Ukrainian refugees get vital information in their language if you speak: Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, Hungarian, Czech, Romanian, German, and more.
Did you know there are 21 other wars of various kinds going on in the world? Although Ukraine is garnering media headlines and ample social media support, Ethiopia, Myanmar, and Libya are engaged in significant, protracted, and underreported civil wars — and months after the chaotic Western withdrawal from Afghanistan, the situation there is devastating. Yet, news outlets, politicians, and media commentators have largely turned their attention elsewhere.
Here’s a few ways you can help:
Myanmar - The military coup that deposed Myanmar's civilian government in February has created an escalating humanitarian crisis and left the country teetering on the brink of civil war. Donate here ⬇️
Afghanistan - More than 3.5 million people have been displaced by the humanitarian crisis following the withdrawal of American troops , and many Afghans are without jobs, money, or enough food. Donate here ⬇️
Syria - Now in its 11th year, the Syrian refugee crisis remains the world’s largest refugee and displacement crisis of our time. Nearly 11.1 million people in Syria need humanitarian assistance and about half of the people affected by the Syrian refugee crisis are children. Donate here ⬇️
⚕️Click here for more organizations supporting victims of war around the world⚕️
Lastly, if you love the pod and want us to produce more amazing content, this is THE LAST DAY to help us win some Podca$h funding 💸
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xo Cokes & Sof