Clonmel Rotary has been playing a crucial role in helping Ukrainians fleeing war in their own country to settle into a new life in Ireland.
Club members are key facilitators at a temporary rest centre in the County Tipperary town that is a vital first refuge for those displaced from their homeland.
The Ukrainians spend between five and seven days in the rest centre – a converted football clubhouse – before moving on to permanent accommodation elsewhere in the country.
The centre is just one of a handful in the country and caters for a maximum of sixty people at a time.
Clonmel Rotary was asked by Tipperary County Council to take charge of the rest centre and the club responded with enthusiasm.
The feedback from the Ukrainian visitors before they move on to other locations has been very positive and they are grateful for the care and support they have received.”
The most vital aspect of the service is to provide three meals a day to the displaced people, as well as helping with registration, the provision of clothing and footwear, security and sourcing doctors or nurses to deal with medical emergencies.
Club President and Project Manager, Michael O’Malley, stated the club is privileged to help in such a major undertaking.
He said: “It is a very rewarding experience for the club members and the many volunteers who help.
“We are honoured to be able to offer Clonmel hospitality to all those arriving in the centre and to make them feel safe and secure.
Clonmel Rotary was asked by Tipperary County Council to take charge of the rest centre and the club responded with enthusiasm.”
“We want to make them know that they are among friends during their first early days in a foreign country.”
Michael also added that there has been a great response to one of the club’s biggest projects.
The feedback from the Ukrainian visitors before they move on to other locations has been very positive and they are grateful for the care and support they have received.
