Search icon

News

15th Mar 2022

Ukrainian charity drive given heels and underwear detail what’s really needed

Ellen Fitzpatrick

They are still taking donations.

Dublin estate agent Keane Thompson opened up an appeal for donations to be made for Ukraine, only to be met with a number of inappropriate items to be given.

The south Dublin agent launched the appeal last week, looking for clothes, medical and baby supplies and toiletries to be donated to those fleeing conflict.

And after receiving some much needed donations, there were a few people who seemed to have misinterpreted the call out completely.

Speaking to Her.ie, Jana Keane said: “People have been very generous and 95% of the donations were excellent with the public’s response being really amazing, but we are sending these items to people fleeing war so we really need practical items.”

In a viral report from Virgin Media, social media users were left shocked when high heels and used underwear were donated in the appeal.

Used underwear, worn bras, heels and cocktail dresses are among the items sent in by the public, and it is unknown if these were from the same person.

A spokesperson told The Sunday World: “We have been getting some unusual items like cocktail dresses and high heels, some dirty, soiled items as well. Obviously, we don’t want any of that sort of stuff.

“It’s their dignity as well, you want to be sending good stuff.”

While the issue did occur, Jana told Her.ie that while they encountered surprising items, the majority of donations have been more than appropriate and they continue to urge people to give what they can.

She said: “My brother in law works with one of the Ukrainians on the ground organising collections and delivery and was telling me about his story. I felt we should be doing something. They are collecting the items from the public and volunteers should as ourselves and delivering them to depots in Dublin 12 and Blanchardstown and from here they are being delivered to Moldova and Ukraine.

“Items such as batteries, medical supplies, medicine, baby food, nappies, torches, sanitary products, toiletries, canned and dried food and that sort of thing. Currently, we have enough clothing for this run.”

The appeal is closing tomorrow, Wednesday March 16th, and Keane Thompson is accepting all donations until then.

A pair of red stilettos from Dunnes Stores went viral last week after being donated to Ukrainians fleeing to Poland, and it sparked outrage online.

OIne furious Twitter user said: “This pair of shoes came today in a convoy of humanitarian aid that arrived in Poland from Ireland. Who on earth would send red stilettos to exhausted women who are fleeing for their lives?”

The Irish Emergency Logistics Team commented: “Never ever donate goods, huge waste in time and effort. Always donate money. Donate to a registered charity that is already in this area and support them that way. No need to re-invent any wheels. Good luck.

“Been advising everyone to follow these guidelines. For what it’s worth. And only to send specific goods that are requested.”