Ukrainian children send drawings from Cambridge to frontline

They were delivered with food and medicine to boost the morale of soldiers.

Around 60 children, who moved to Cambridgeshire when the war in Ukraine broke out, were involved in the scheme.

The youngest participant was just 5 years old.

They took part in a colouring competition called "Ukraine is in my Heart" hosted by the Ukrainian Heritage, Art and Music (HAM) centre in Cambridge.

It was made possible by a grant from South Cambridgeshire District Council and the Community Chest grants, which helps people from Ukraine, temporarily living in the UK, to integrate into the community.

Alla Madich, from the Ukrainian HAM Centre:

"The children did a great job, and it was a very successful community event.

"I’m sure their artwork will bring a much-needed smile to the faces of those who receive them.

"We are proud to have created a network of support that really works."

The children who did the best drawings were awarded with prizes of soft toys.

The toys were donated from children in Histon, who wanted to help after learning about the war and refugees living locally.

Bill Handley, lead cabinet member for Communities at South Cambridgeshire District Council:

"This wonderful story shows the importance of our Ukraine Small Grants scheme and what a difference it can make to people. 

"The grants are a simple yet powerful way of supporting voluntary and community sector groups, charities and public sector bodies who wish to further improve the quality of life for Ukrainians living in South Cambridgeshire and are designed to help them integrate and socialise within their communities. 

"We invite other groups to please find out more and consider applying."

The winners were announced at the Ukrainian HAM Centre Charity music event Kozacck's Pokrova Day, in St Giles Church in Cambridge.

The entertainment by British Folk Orchestra, Folk Tunes, helped raise £1,200.

The drawings were packed among a special cargo of supplies, with the help of Somerset Aid Group. 

Each drawing will be personally handed over to soldiers in four different brigades in eastern Ukraine.