Ukraine Refugee Support
When war erupted in Ukraine in 2022, SEWA Europe responded immediately—mobilizing global volunteers, launching emergency helplines, and coordinating evacuations across borders. Supported by SEWA USA through helpline operations and SEWA UK at border relief points, thousands of stranded students and families received guidance, food, shelter, and transport assistance.
Over 35,000 individuals were supported, with more than 12,000 directly assisted in evacuation—restoring hope in the midst of crisis through service beyond self.
When war broke out in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, SEWA Europe swiftly mobilized a global humanitarian response to support stranded students and families. Emergency helplines were launched within hours, with critical call support from SEWA USA, while on-ground and border assistance was strengthened by SEWA UK and volunteers across Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. From evacuation coordination and transport guidance to providing food, shelter, medical aid, and essential supplies, SEWA’s volunteers worked tirelessly across 18 cities. In total, more than 35,000 individuals were supported, with over 12,000 directly assisted in evacuation—demonstrating the power of global collaboration and service beyond self in the face of crisis.
Supported 35,000+ individuals through coordinated relief and evacuation efforts.
Directly assisted in the evacuation of 12,000+ people to safety.
Received 6,000+ helpline requests, with support from 350+ helpline volunteers (including support from SEWA USA).
Deployed 150+ on-ground volunteers across 18 cities in Ukraine and neighboring countries.
Mobilized volunteers from 25+ countries, serving people from 12+ nationalities.
Established relief support at border crossings in Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, with active assistance from SEWA UK.
Set up base camps (including Medyka, Poland) with food, water, heaters, blankets, phone charging stations, and seating areas.
Assisted students with biometric registration, documentation, train tickets, and safe transit to Operation Ganga flights.
Organized medical support and blood donation drives in cities like Lviv.
Provided winter clothing, shoes, gloves, and toys to orphanages in Ivano-Frankivsk and supported refugee shelters with essential supplies.
These efforts ensured not just evacuation, but dignity, safety, and hope for thousands affected by the war.