Two years on from the invasion of Ukraine, Bromley came together at the Civic Centre yesterday to hold a service of remembrance, support and solidarity.
Ukrainians who have relocated to Bromley in the last two years and local residents, including those who have hosted Ukrainian families through the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme, were joined at the service by the Mayor of Bromley, Deputy Mayor, Leader of the Council Councillor Colin Smith and Members and Officers of Bromley Council.
After the service, attendees were able to view a display of artwork from Ukrainian children organised by Nataliia Popravka, a Ukrainian artist who also gave a speech at the service. The display, entitled ‘With Ukraine in My Heart’, featured 14 artworks on the theme of the war made by children aged 5 to 14, alongside two of Nataliia’s own watercolours.
Councillor Mike Botting, Mayor of Bromley said, “On this second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, we gather as a community to show our unwavering support for our Ukrainian friends and neighbours. We hold dear the time they spend with us, but hope and pray for the day when their homeland is free from conflict."
The Mayor continued, “We again thank the Bromley residents who have shared their homes and supported the people of Ukraine in so many ways, with many lifetime friendships forming as a result, and ask that those able to support a Ukrainian family will consider becoming a host through the Homes for Ukraine scheme.”
Since the start of the conflict, hundreds of Bromley residents have opened their doors to over 900 Ukrainian guests through the Homes for Ukraine initiative, with support from the council and voluntary groups.
The council also runs a weekly Ukraine Support Hub offering advice and assistance to both Ukrainians and the residents hosting them. The Hub is open from 09:30 to 12:30 every Thursday morning at the Civic Centre, with specialist advice staff on hand to give support and advice on a range of subjects, including employment, education, housing and learning English.
The Mayor was also delighted to be able to present a cheque of £1,000 to the Rotary Clubs of Bromley to be added to their Ukraine appeal. The money was raised through a fundraising event held by the Mayor at the end of January.
More information on how to support the people of Ukraine.
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For media enquiries, please contact: Olivia Marshall, Public Affairs Officer, on 020 8461 7857 or email olivia.marshall@bromley.gov.uk