Swift and enormous response to Ukraine appeal by Errill and Rathdowney community in Laois

The community of Errill and Rathdowney have responded rapidly and constructively to the war in Ukraine.

Marion and Kieran O’Dea called a meeting in Ray’s Bar in Errill on last week to gather people together to see what we as a community could do to help the Ukrainian people. A  number of people attended and offered help and assistance.

"We were delighted to have Ludmila McGrath who is Ukrainian and living in Errill, join us at the meeting," they said.

A number of initiatives were put in place to help: businesses allowed their premises to be used as drop -off points; trolley collections were set-up in local supermarket; and lists of useful items were distributed to guide people how best to help.

"The response was both swift and enormously generous and we thank the people of Errill and Rathdowney and the adjoining hinterland for their response," said the organisers.

A substantial contribution to the Red Cross has also been made. 

"Less than seven days into this appeal the first two vanloads of goods will join the truck convoy leaving Portlaoise this week for the Polish border. Heartfelt thanks to all for your generosity," said the organisers.

Errill/Rathdowney Ukrainian Support Group.