Scots praised for 'phenomenal' generosity as Ukraine humanitarian appeal nears £20m

People in Scotland have been praised for their “phenomenal” generosity as a fundraiser to support Ukraine nears £20m.

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has raised £200m in the two weeks since it was launched.

And the appeal has received donations totalling £19.5m from people across Scotland.

It is equivalent to a donation of £3.50 for every man, woman and child currently living in the country.

The appeal was backed by the UK and Scottish Governments, who donated £25m and £2m respectively.

The money is being used to help respond to the humanitarian crisis caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Marie Hayes, of Red Cross Scotland and DEC Scotland chair for the appeal, described the response as “amazing”.

“The generosity of people in Scotland has been phenomenal,” said Hayes.

“We’ve seen thousands and thousands of donations from individuals, families and fantastic fundraisers being held right across the country.

“We’ve also seen a truly amazing response from some of Scotland’s biggest companies who have helped get the word out far and wide and mobilise the goodwill of their customers and staff.

“This amazing sum of money shows what’s possible when we all come together as charities, as communities, as a country, to help people who are facing unimaginable hardships.

“Thank you so much to everyone who has leant their support to us in this appeal. Your donations will help meet people’s immediate needs now and help support them in the months and years ahead.”