Longford charity making huge strides with Little Steps

A small gesture here in Ireland is making a huge impact 3,000 kilometres away. Little Steps for Ukraine is a project set up by Ukrainian mothers in Longford to bring joy to children suffering in war ravaged Ukraine.

Local volunteer Tiernan Dolan explained the concept of the appeal to the Leader: “The idea is simple. The donor fills a shoe box with little treats, like sweets, t-shirt, a soft toy, colouring book and crayons. The group in Longford, through their friends back at home, have lists of children who would dearly love to receive a surprise gift.”

There is also a list of autistic children in Ukraine on the list. So far, the Longford group have over two hundred children that they're aiming to support with this lovely, worthwhile project. And as news of Little Steps spreads, the list of children in Ukraine grows every day.

Tiernan says local business have generously rowed in with their support: “Though only launched recently, many Longford friends as well as the women themselves have contributed to buy the many items needed. Spirit Clothing have donated boxes of brand new clothes and there is a collection point in Dennistons Music shop if you want to make a cash donation.

“Coy and Farrell have also been extremely generous in their support of the project. Cullens Shoe Shop on Main St, have provided the boxes and An Post has generously offered to post the packages if they're under 2kg and if the sender shows ID,” he told.

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The group meet twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays (12 noon – 2pm) in the EDI centre off the Athlone Road to sort, pack, address and finally to post the gift boxes. Within a few days, children whose short lives have been turned upside down by the Russian invasion, will be opening their gifts: “These simple shoe boxes will provide great joy in these unspeakably difficult times for the children,” Tiernan said.

The Little Steps for Ukraine project in Longford has received great interest from other groups in places like Bray, Roscommon, Waterford and Cork. A list of places where you can make a donation is currently being finalised.

Every cent counts, 100% of donations get to the children because there are no administration costs at all. Receipts for every single item bought are kept and everyone involved is an unpaid volunteer.

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The volunteers have set up a Facebook page 'Little Steps for Ukraine', where details of their efforts are available.
The group are making a huge difference and if you'd like any information or become involved, you can also contact Tiernan Dolan on 087 989 6269.