Mariupol.
In March 2022, an unfamiliar city name suddenly became known to people around the world. The armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated on February 24 of the same year, and civilians were stranded in the city and attempting to flee the region. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) played a central role in the rescue operation.

The International Committee of the Red Cross, which played a central role in the evacuation from Mariupol

On April 5, the ICRC led a convoy of buses and private cars carrying more than 1,000 evacuees from Berdzhansik, a city adjacent to Mariupol, to Zaporizha, about 200 km away. Most of the evacuees at this time were citizens who had escaped Mariupol on their own. In order to get as many evacuees on the bus as possible, some remained standing in the bus aisles throughout the night.

Red Cross support that goes beyond medical activities

Since the outbreak of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, residents of many cities, not only Mariupol, have been forced to leave their homes with a heavy heart. More than 14 million people, or one-third of Ukraine's population, have been forced to flee their homes. Inna evacuated with her family from Halkiou in the east to Uzhhorod.
"We left Halkiu in a car with seven people. We ran out with just the clothes we were wearing and no luggage. Everything we have now was provided by the Red Cross volunteers in Užuhorod. In this box we have detergent, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, toothpaste, disposable razors, and other hygiene items. We are especially grateful for the detergent.”
The Red Cross is not only providing medical care, but also food, water, clothing, blankets, and even smart phone SIM cards that can be used in other countries to keep people up-to-date and connected with family and friends, even when they are far from home.

Many families have been evacuated outside the country. In particular, many Ukrainian residents have fled to neighboring Poland. In order to support such displaced people, the Red Cross is also providing housing assistance. One such family is Valentyna and her daughter, Natasha, who live in the Polish Red Cross dormitory near Krakow.
"We are grateful to be here now in this difficult time of sadness and fear, not knowing what tomorrow will bring. And I am grateful for the Red Cross, who is doing very important work,” she said.

Volunteers supporting Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies's works in various countries

The National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which are the supporters of the displaced people, are supported by volunteers. Dr.Alessandra, a doctor from the Polish Red Cross Society, is also a volunteer. She is providing medical care at a temporary shelter.
She said,"I had no hesitation in volunteering as something I could do to help people in need under these circumstances."
At this very moment,many evacuees continue to pray for a safe return to their homes.