CEO of World Vision Canada talks Ukrainian refugees

As Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its 23rd day, those who have fled Ukraine have topped 3.2 million. That number is still climbing. World Vision Canada has been on the ground at borders around Ukraine, aiding this humanitarian crisis.

Michael Messenger, CEO and president of World Vision Canada, joined us this morning to talk about his experience.

Messenger returned to Canada from Romania this week and says he has witnessed heartbreaking stories from the people of Ukraine trying to flee war.

“I’m a parent myself, I always think about how bad it must be to scoop my children up, fit whatever I can into a a suitcase and flee into the unknown,” said Messenger.

He says the emotional trauma on Ukrainian children is a major issue. Messenger also says the issue with children fleeing Ukraine, is that they are vulnerable to exploitation and need added protection. Human trafficking could also be a danger.

“The psychological toll on kids is profound,” said Messenger. “They have had to leave behind everything that they know that gives them security, their family, their home, and they are going into the unknown.”

World Vision Canada focuses on psychological first aid in situations like this. It provides everyone, especially children, with psychological support as soon as they cross the border.

Messenger says World Vision Canada’s focus is to provide people with the tools they need to survive when they cross the border. He says this includes shelter, food, hygiene kits and more.

“As we look toward the future, we are really needing to ramp up our response by addressing the issues of people in Ukraine,” said Messenger. “We have had humanitarian convoys go into hospitals in Ukraine.”

Messenger says there are millions of people displaced in the Ukraine who can not get out and that World Vision Canada is hoping to help them as much as it can help refugees who have fled the country.

To donate, visit donate.worldvision.ca