AOECS Emergency Fund Brings Christmas Magic to Children with Coeliac Disease in War-Torn Ukraine

The Ukrainian Coeliac Society, with the support of the AOECS Emergency Fund, brought smiles and hope to children with coeliac disease this past Christmas.

700 Gluten-Free Christmas Gifts Delivered Across Ukraine

Thanks to the generosity of individuals and organisations who donated to the fund, the Ukrainian Society could purchase and distribute Christmas presents to 700 children across Ukraine, including those in pre-frontline areas.

Volunteers from the Ukrainian Coeliac Society went above and beyond to deliver gifts, even to children in pre-frontline and frontline regions. The presents, which included gluten-free sweets, reached children in areas such as Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Kirovohrad, and Chernihiv during these challenging times.

Olga Naumova of the Ukrainian Coeliac Society expressed heartfelt gratitude:
"At Christmas and New Year, everyone expects magic. And our children are no exception. This year's magic was created for them by caring international coeliac disease societies within AOECS, thanks to which our children received presents.
We sincerely thank everyone who helps to support the Ukrainian Coeliac Disease Society in this difficult time! Your contribution is invaluable, and we see how your efforts make a difference. Friends, together we are stronger!"

We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Food Business Operators who kindly facilitated this cause, including Skopa Food, Bezglutex, and Dr. Schär.

The AOECS Emergency Fund

The AOECS Emergency Fund was established to provide urgent support to coeliac societies and individuals in need across Europe. This act of kindness demonstrates the power of international solidarity in making a real difference, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Ongoing Challenges for Ukrainian Coeliacs

While this initiative brought joy to many children, the situation for people with coeliac disease in Ukraine remains dire. Access to gluten-free food and resources continues to be a significant challenge in the conflict-stricken country.

Gluten-free products are now mainly available in large cities. However, many people from occupied territories have been displaced and now reside in smaller towns and villages, where access to gluten-free food is minimal. This is why food shipments supported by AOECS remain critical.

Donate to the AOECS Emergency Fund

The AOECS Emergency Fund is committed to supporting coeliacs in need, but we cannot do it without your help. Donations are urgently needed to sustain our efforts and provide relief to people with coeliac disease during these difficult times.

To learn more about the AOECS Emergency Fund and how to donate, please visit: https://www.aoecs.org/advocacy/aoecs-emergency-fund/