Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, offers a message of thanks to those who supported his campaign to provide electric generators and thermal shirts to people suffering from the cold in Ukraine.
The pope’s almoner, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, has returned from Ukraine calling this past Christmas a truly “Christian” one.
“We have been able to share with others what belongs to us, even if it's just a few pennies, but that is life to them,” he told Vatican News.
The cardinal’s words were part of a statement of gratitude to all those who participated in a campaign that gathered funds for thermal shirts and electric generators to help Ukrainians get through the harsh winter months.
The UN refugee agency, the UNHCR, reports that about 7 million people have been internally displaced in Ukraine and are dealing with freezing winter conditions. Many are taking shelter in damaged buildings and have no access to electricity and heating.
While the initial goal of the campaign was 100,000 euros, over 250,000 has been raised.
The papal almoner, formally called the "Almoner of His Holiness," is responsible for performing works of mercy on behalf of the pope.
Cardinal Krajewski also thanked those who made the thermal clothing because they were obtained at a very low price from various Italian factories thanks to the generosity of the manufacturers.
Vatican News reports that four trucks containing the clothing were sent to Lviv, and then distributed in the war zones.
Electric generators were also purchased using the funds.
Many have been concerned about the welfare of people in Ukraine through the winter months. If you would like to help, check out this effort by some American musicians who have partnered with the Knights of Columbus to help Ukraine over these next few months.
