A FACEBOOK page called ‘Isle of Wight community help for Ukraine’ has been created by concerned Islanders who want to help in any way they can.

The page was set up on February 26, and over 2,100 members have joined at the time of writing, offering their help, donations and sites for drop off points.

Scroll down for list donations needed and Island drop off points

The support comes as Islanders stand in solidarity with Ukraine, denouncing Russia’s assault on its neighbour.

Katie Dack, one of the page admins, said: “Sarah Stoker set up the group initially, and I offered to help out.

“We just want to help in whatever way we can. We hope to donate these items and make things a little easier for them.

“The community has been amazing and have all come together to help.

The page is seeking donations as people in Ukraine are forced to flee for their lives and their safety.

The things most needed at the moment are as follows:

  • Bandages, pasters, disinfectants and tourniquets
  • Blankets, duvets, pillowcases, sleeping bags and thermal blankets
  • Personal hygiene items - soaps, shampoos, sanitary napkins, tampons, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
  • Pacifiers, bottles, formula milk, baby jars and tubes
  • Long-term food: groats, pasta, cereals and canned food
  • Flashlights, batteries, thermos flasks and hand warmers
  • Disposable cups, plates, bowls and cutlery
  • Mattresses and camp beds
  • Reflective vests
  • Toys for children - preferably small ones, colouring books and crayons.

Note: Clothes are not needed at this time.

Several Isle of Wight businesses and charities have offered their premises as drop off points for donations, ready for collection.

Island collection points are currently as follows (these will be updated):

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • The Green Room, Ventnor Town Council, Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.

  • Fabulash, 21 Pier Street​

Tuesdays 9am to 3 pm, Wednesdays 9am to 7pm, Thursdays 9am to 5pm, Fridays 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9am to 3pm.  

Isle of Wight County Press: ​

  • Isle of Wight County Press, Brannon House, 123 Pyle Street

From Wednesday (March 2), weekdays, 9am to 4.30pm.

  • True Vine Church, 26a High Street (next to Slug and Lettuce Pub)

Daily, 11am to 4pm.

  • JJ's Take-Out, Whitepit Lane

Either donate via area under takeaway or via a driver if having food delivered.

  • The Village Hall, Main Road, Chillerton - Saturday morning 5th March from 10am 
  • The Gallybagger Inn, Main Road, Chillerton - Saturday 7pm-11pm and Sunday 12pm-3pm

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • Yarmouth Sailing Club (just on left by the bridge)

Wednesday and Friday, 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • Ryde Veterans Hub, 162 High Street

Monday to Saturday, 9am to 4pm.   

  • Ryde Elim Church, Albert Street

Thursday 9.30am to 2.30pm and Friday 9.30am to 12pm.

  • Ryde Academy, Pell Lane​
  • Urban Saints Westbrook Centre, Oakhill Rd​

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • Right at Home Isle of Wight, 7 High Street

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4pm.

A spokesperson from Right at Home said: “As this a base for carers they may need to pop out and leave office empty, please leave donations with shop downstairs."

“If you ring the bell, they will be happy to pop down.”

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • MAD-Aid, 10 York Avenue

Daily, 9am to 5pm.​

  • Queensgate Foundation Primary School, Beatrice Avenue

Weekdays, 8.30am to 15:30am.

A spokesperson said: "A collection box will be in the foyer of the main entrance, if you are able to donate please do."

Isle of Wight County Press:

  • Binstead Stepping Stones Preschool, Hazlemere Avenue

Weekdays, 9am to 3pm.​

 

Join the Isle of Wight community help for Ukraine group on Facebook for the latest updates.