Assistance for Ukraine becomes more organized as war prolongs, says volunteer in Jyväskylä

Assistance for Ukraine has become increasingly organized as the war has prolonged. According to Antti Sallinen, a volunteer and board member of the “Help for Ukraine” association in Jyväskylä, transportation logistics have significantly improved since the war began.

“Previously, we transported many small aid packages with vans; now we are sending large equipment donations with semi-trailers,” Sallinen explained. Trucks from Central Finland deliver loads to a temporary warehouse in Poland, where they are picked up by Ukrainian recipients. A national transport company sponsors these truck deliveries.

When necessary, aid is collected from other parts of Finland, such as Kajaani, Turku, or the capital region. Various organizations have specialized in providing supplies that they can source more easily through their networks. In Southern Savo, the “Help for Ukraine” association focuses particularly on healthcare supplies, including wheelchairs, walkers, and surgical instruments. Miia Koppi from Mikkeli mentioned that established contacts with public healthcare have facilitated their efforts.

“With more funding for transportation costs, we could send even more items to Ukraine,” Koppi said. Transportation expenses are covered by funds raised through small donations, and deliveries are made with vans and buses that also offer free transport to individuals needing temporary refuge.

While initially, smaller supplies were sent, organizations are now focusing on sending larger hospital equipment and vehicles—approximately a hundred vehicles to date. There is a constant need for four-wheel drives and open-basket trucks.

In Mikkeli, local organizations regularly receive hospital textiles donated by a local laundry service, highlighting the ongoing needs within Ukraine amidst the continuing conflict.