Crisis in Ukraine has been met by support from the international community, including a number of Chicagoland businesses and organizations.
Chicago is separated from sister city Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, by over 5,000 miles. Of course, the distance hasn’t stopped Chicagoans from providing support for Ukrainians as they endure an assault on their nation’s sovereignty beginning on February 24.
Likewise, many Americans are looking for ways to support Ukraine during the Russian invasion that has left hundreds dead, thousands homeless, and millions fearful for their lives and their country.
Chicagoland Chamber member ELEKS, originally founded in Ukraine, has emerged as a leader during the crisis by focusing efforts on awareness and humanitarian assistance. ELEKS is encouraging foreigners to provide assistance through donations, volunteering, and joining peaceful rallies – however you can help.
While thousands of Ukrainians have safely fled conflict, a majority of the nation’s population still remains within its borders, desperately seeking aid and protection. To streamline the inflows of humanitarian aid, the National Bank of Ukraine recently opened an account for the Ministry of Social Policy to collect charitable contributions from foreign supporters.
Money transferred to this account will be used by the Ministry of Social Policy:
- to provide food and shelter for refugees and citizens that have been displaced due to military conflict;
- to provide clothing, shoes, and medicine;
- to buy staple goods, and;
- to pay out one-off financial aid and to meet other essential needs of the population
Other members of the Chicagoland Chamber have been active in their support for Ukraine as well.
Boeing recently announced a $2 million emergency assistance package directed to organizations to bring food, water, clothing, and shelter to displaced Ukrainians. In addition, Boeing will match all qualifying employee contributions made in support of Ukrainian humanitarian relief.
The Polish Investment and Trade Agency is implementing a support program for the temporary relocation of Ukrainian businesses to Poland. The program includes access to co-working spaces, introduction to permanent services, and more support for businesses to have the ability to continue operating.
JPMorgan Chase is committing a total of $5 million to organizations working to provide emergency food, housing, and medical services to those in need, including International Medical Corps, United States Fund for UNICEF and World Central Kitchen.
As these unfortunate events continue to unfold, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce urges members of the business community to make a difference, whether it’s through financial assistance or using your platform to raise awareness.
Through collective support, we have the power to bring Chicagoans and Ukrainians closer together despite the 5,000 miles of separation.
If you are a Chamber member and you’d like to add your organization’s efforts to support Ukraine to this post, please contact our communications team (communications@chicagolandchamber.org).
There are plenty of ways to support Ukrainians in need – please take a moment to see how you can help today.