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UK publishers donate 10,000 books to Ukrainian children fleeing conflict
More than 10,000 books donated by UK publishers are on their way to Warsaw where they will support Ukrainian children fleeing conflict.
Book Aid International said 10,070 books are being sent to Polish literacy organisation The Universal Reading Foundation, which works with teachers, librarians and parents to increase literacy and advocate for more state investment in reading.
With the outbreak of war the charity refocused on helping Ukrainian refugee children in Poland, which is home to over three million refugees. Maria Deskur, group c.e.o., said: “Books are a refuge. For small kids reading is a peaceful and close moment with someone they trust: a fundamental sign that they are ok, they can spare a moment to smile together over a book. For older children reading is a crucial mind opener; a huge empathy strengthening training; a great critical thinking lesson – which especially for teenagers is so immensely important.
“Thanks to the Book Aid International donation, we plan to start an extensive co-operation with refugee centres where Ukrainians stay on their way to other countries. We would love all these children to be able to get the chance to read at least one book.”
The shipment was made possible because many publishers chose to donate new books, with Oxford University Press and Green Bean Books singled out for their financial contributions. Alison Tweed, chief executive at Book Aid International, said: “When conflict strikes books offer the chance to find hope and to continue to learn even while fleeing war. We think it is vital to support The Universal Reading Foundation’s important work at this incredibly difficult time and we would like to warmly thank everyone who made this shipment possible. We could not send a single book without the support of publishers that donate these wonderful, brand new books to our charity.”
Book Aid International’s work in Ukraine is part of its wider work offering people fleeing or living with conflict the opportunity to read. Last year, it provided brand new, carefully selected books to 30 refugee camps in countries including Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia and provided 89,731 books to people living with or recovering from conflict in Syria, the Cameroon, Iraq and Palestine.
