Dear Vintners,

How I wish I was not having to write this note. As we go about our daily lives, slowly returning to normal after the disruption and, for many, personal loss associated with the last two years of the pandemic, another tragedy is unfolding on our doorstep in Ukraine.

It is inconceivable to me that, in the third decade of the 21st century, over 75 years after the end of WW2, we should once again be seeing a hostile regime invading a sovereign democracy on the European continent. In the space of a week, Russia’s war against Ukraine has produced heart-breaking scenes of devastation and personal tragedy all of which lead us to question whether there is anything we can do to help.

Having taken advice from those in the Disaster Relief sector, we understand that making a contribution to an established charity with experience in providing swift and targeted relief is the best way. The UK Government's ‘Disasters Emergency Committee’ (DEC) Ukraine appeal will help get relief to where it’s needed, whether inside Ukraine or helping the growing number of refugees fleeing from the horrors of war.

Members who are able to support this appeal are asked to make a one-off donation to the Vintners’ Foundation using the donation form below. The Vintners’ Foundation will then match your donation and pass the full, matched amount onto the Disasters Emergency Committee.

Donating via the Vintners’ Foundation in this way means your contribution will make a real difference.

To support this appeal and to make a donation, please click scroll down.

As you can imagine, time is of the essence. With the war not even two weeks old, over 2 million refugees have already fled Ukraine and the toll of dead and injured is rising daily.

Ann Hill
Master Vintner
8 March 2022