WATCH: Mullingar donations for Ukrainian people pouring in

The Mullingar businesswoman who has organised a humanitarian aid collection for the people of Ukraine seeking refuge in Poland says that she has been “overwhelmed” by the response from people.

For the next two days, cosmetic firm Inglot's Mullingar depot in Lough Sheever Corporate Park is a drop-off point for humanitarian donations for the tens of thousands of Ukrainians currently seeking refuge in Poland.

People can drop off donations at Inglot's depot this evening, Tuesday, until 7pm and Wednesday, 9am-1pm.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner in the depot this afternoon, Inglot managing director Jane Swarbrigg thanked the people of Mullingar for their generosity.

She also noted that as the humanitarian crisis evolves, the immediate needs of the Ukrainian people are becoming clearer.

“The message and needs seem to be changing daily as the situation intensifies.

“The company Green Speed delivering these supplies are helping hundreds of thousands of refugees. Logistically it will take time to get these items exactly where they need to be, but we know we can count on them.

“Today there has been an outcry in particular for donations to charities working in the Ukraine, they need money for supplies and right now this a brilliant and immediate way to offer support to those in need,” she said.

As for her own collection, Jane says that there are a number of items that she and her team of volunteers require for shipping to Ukraine.

“We are low in bedding, just new stuff needed, please, like unused sleeping bags, blankets, and electrics like power banks and non-perishable food. And boxes, if anyone happens to have boxes, please bring them too,” she said.