My name is Elaine. The war in Ukraine is causing horrible suffering not only for people but for animals left behind in the chaos and destruction. With most resources focused on humanitarian relief, I’ve wondered, who’s helping the homeless pets and animals in Ukraine? These innocent souls certainly didn’t ask for a war. As I’ve come to learn about many causes, some tender-hearted Ukrainians are bravely taking matters into their own hands. I’m raising funds for these people. Specifically, for LENA, in the northwestern Ukrainian village of Volodymyr, and her outreach to rescue pets in her region.

In the midst of Ukraine’s crazy and ugly war, Lena leads an army of love.

I discovered Lena thanks to Andriy--a kind Ukrainian friend of mine whose wartime mission is bringing supplies to numerous worthy causes in his country. Andriy met Lena and her team while delivering supplies. He was so touched by their loving dedication to pets made homeless by the war, he made a video of them to post online. When I saw it, I knew I had to do something to help. Andriy remains in touch with Lena and now brings them some supplies himself.

Without consistent funding or even a name, Lena and her friends have, in effect, served as their region’s shelter for almost a year. (On days she has fuel money, Lena travels even farther to reach pets in need.) Lena had dreams of maybe one day starting her own shelter but, for now, her focus is immediate and all-absorbing: providing food and shelter, arranging for basic medical care, vaccinations, spay/neuter services (when available), providing foster homes, and finding adopters. Much of this she does herself or with friend and team member, Natalie.

Their most urgent and on-going needs are medicines/vaccinations and pet food. Medicines are about $560/month. The last pet food shipment was about $500. I would like to provide them, at a minimum, with a few months of funding. We will collect funds in our personal U.S. savings account. Once completed, we'll transfer the funds to Lena's bank account in Ukraine.

Yes, there are larger groups providing help to animals and pets in Ukraine and they are good. Yet, I’ve learned that sometimes it’s hard for care to reach the local level in small communities, especially in wartime, at least in a timely way. Lena IS as local as it gets. She has the necessary passion and a proven track record of dedication. She just needs the resources. With Andriy as an ally to stay in touch, I feel good about helping her.

Let’s help Lena win her battle to rescue and find homes for pets in Ukraine!

I appreciate your consideration.