Since the war in Ukraine began a month ago, an estimated 3.2 million people have fled the country. Many thousands passed through L'viv on the way to the nearby Polish border.
In recent days, the number of refugees passing through L'viv has diminished and the number seeking assistance from UBTS also has declined. One UBTS facility is now dedicated to providing shelter, meals, clothing, and medical assistance to Ukrainian refugees, as well as transportation to the Polish border.
A second UBTS facility is dedicated to the distribution of tons of humanitarian food, medical, and hygiene supplies throughout Ukraine where the need is greatest. This work is coordinated through pastors and churches in the UBTS network. This new phase of aid has required the purchase of a truck to transport supplies, as well as a continuing provision of fuel.
In a new relief effort, UBTS will continue to assist Ukrainians after their arrival in Poland. The UBTS team is establishing a refugee reintegration center there to provide counseling and other aid to help Ukrainians resettle in Poland and other European countries. They also will teach Ukrainians how to share the gospel with others who need its message of hope and salvation.
In the midst of this crisis response, UBTS remains mindful of the students who have studied and served for four years and anticipated they would graduate this spring. UBTS leaders are now considering how and where a graduation ceremony can be held in a way that honors students' accomplishments.
The ability of UBTS to quickly and effectively lean in to serve the Ukrainian people was honed during the global pandemic. Facing the challenge and restrictions of COVID-19, UBTS leaders introduced online classes and socially distant classrooms to ensure students could continue their studies. This capacity to successfully pivot in response to urgent needs while holding fast to its mission is a hallmark of UBTS leadership.
