UK volunteers wrap 25,000 Christmas gifts for children in Ukraine heartwarming 'wrapathon'

In an inspiring show of solidarity, volunteers across the UK have wrapped around 25,000 Christmas gifts to bring holiday cheer to children in war-torn Ukraine.

Organized by The Plant and Hire Aid Alliance, the “wrapathon” cut across Swindon, Bath, and Ipswich where participants come together to prepare gifts for young Ukrainians, continuing the spirit of giving for the third consecutive year.

Since the event began, approximately 45,000 presents have been delivered to Ukrainian children. Jeremy Fish, CEO of Ardent Hire Solutions and founding member of The Plant and Hire Aid Alliance, explained the motivation behind the initiative. “A lot of people are now seeing less about Ukraine on the news, but the suffering continues, and it’s important we don’t forget them,” Fish said. “We’re a humanitarian organization. We try and bring a bit of comfort and joy to children and families. We’ve got to do something.”

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Fish first conceived the idea in February 2022, after driving a van filled with humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian border. Since then, he and his company have organized numerous aid deliveries, including essential supplies such as generators for water treatment and medical facilities. “Eventually, someone said, what about Christmas presents,” he recalled. “Lots of people donated presents and chipped in with gifts but said you’ll have to wrap them, and it’s just grown from there.”

The Ipswich wrapathon took place at Claydon High School, while Swindon hosted its event at the Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, with a second session scheduled for Sunday. In Bath, volunteers gathered at Oldfield Park Scala. According to Fish, “We need a lot of people, a lot of wrapping paper, a lot of Sellotape, and a lot of scissors.”

Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, Fish said, “Hopefully everyone will go home with a feeling that they’ve done something nice for children. We often get photos back showing children unwrapping the presents, and the joy on their faces makes it all worthwhile.”

The wrapped gifts are delivered to Rotary Clubs at the Ukrainian border and distributed across Ukraine, ensuring children can experience a bit of holiday warmth despite the hardships they face. The Plant and Hire Aid Alliance hopes this gesture brings comfort and joy, sending a powerful message of compassion and unity across borders.