St Columba’s College in St Albans organised a collection of much-needed items for Ukrainian refugees on Wednesday 9th March.

Thanks to the generosity of a St Columba’s family a 22-tonne lorry was on hand in Westminster Lodge car park to drive the aid to Romania.

From there the donations will be transferred to minibuses, which will then move them to Ukraine.

"We are all desperately moved by the situation in Ukraine," said St Columba’s Headmaster David Buxton, "and we have had many families asking how we can help as a College community.

"In a situation where we feel so helpless as to how we can support the people of Ukraine, this gesture of almsgiving will help many desperate families."

In its Ukraine Appeal shared with current families, alumni, local schools and houses of worship last week, the Catholic school in St Albans asked for donations of urgently requested hygiene products and baby supplies including feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, nappies and baby food.

The appeal was also widely shared on social media by local influencers and community groups.

Many St Columba's parents volunteered their time to sort and pack up the donations, both in College and also at the collection point in Westminster Lodge car park.

Students from the Prep and Senior School, together with staff helped to carry boxes and load the lorry.

So many items were donated that the large lorry was full by 11am and the collection point was closed early.

"We are overwhelmed by the compassion and generosity of our community," said Mr Buxton.

"Our most sincere thanks to everyone who has responded to our appeal for help."

The volunteers also collected foldable beds, mattresses, sleeping bags, blankets, bath robes and towels.

Many refugees are sleeping on floors in churches and schools, so these items are particularly in need as the weather is bitterly cold.

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