2,500 Ukrainian Railway workers kitted out thanks to ‘Kit for Kyiv’ campaign

2,500 Ukrainian railway workers have been kitted out so far as part of the British rail industry's ‘Kit for Kyiv’ campaign. This initiative, spearheaded by Rail Partners and supported by Rail magazine, aims to raise funds to equip Ukrainian rail workers with vital body armour and helmets as they navigate the dangers of the ongoing conflict.

"The Ukrainian Railway - Ukrzaliznytsia - continues to play a crucial role in this conflict," stated Andy Bagnall, Chief Executive of Rail Partners. "They've been dubbed the 'Iron People' for a reason - they're the last to leave areas under attack and the first to return, getting vital supplies and people where they need to be."

Since the war began in 2022, Ukrainian rail workers have been instrumental in evacuating civilians, transporting grain exports, and supporting troop movements. However, their dedication comes at a cost. Many railway employees operate in highly dangerous areas, with even stations vulnerable to missile and drone attacks. The ‘Kit for Kyiv’ campaign aims to address this critical need by providing them with life-saving protective equipment.

The campaign received a kickstart with donations from major British rail companies like Arriva, DB Cargo, FirstGroup, and Transport for UK. All donations made in GBP to the Global Ukraine Rail Task Force will be directed towards the initiative. A £20 donation can equip a single Ukrainian rail worker with a helmet and body armour.

"Protecting Ukrainian Railways employees is our top priority," emphasised Oleksiy Semerun, Chairman of the Trade Union of Railwaymen and Transport Construction Workers of Ukraine. "They are a lifeline for the Ukrainian people, but they're also a vital part of the war effort. We're incredibly grateful for the existing food parcel donations, and any additional support to safeguard frontline workers will be hugely appreciated."

The ‘Kit for Kyiv’ campaign builds on previous efforts by British rail companies to aid their Ukrainian colleagues. Earlier this year, donations funded the delivery of nearly 7,500 food parcels to Ukrainian railway workers and their families. This initiative stemmed from a successful fundraising event held in September 2023 by Rail Partners and its industry partners.

To learn more and donate to the ‘Kit for Kyiv’ campaign, visit:
https://www.we-aid.org/en/initiatives-2/allrail-support-ukraine-rail-task-force/