Möhnesee, 20.01.2025. Together with ‘Ukraine-Hilfe Delbrück’, the ARCHEMED — Ärzte für Kinder in Not e. V. association sent the first aid convoy of 2025 on its way to Ukraine. The transport set off on 6 January. The aid supplies reached the cities of Lviv, Kiev and Kharkiv. Nine drivers covered a total of 4,700 kilometres in seven days.
‘We are happy to support the tireless commitment of the people from Delbrück, we have the same thing in mind: we want to help where the need is great,’ summarises Hubertus Bömer, treasurer at Archemed. So the association organised a generous donation in kind: Brand new turnout gear for 40 firefighters worth over 30,000 euros. The manufacturer ‘Der Klassiker’ from the Black Forest donated the urgently needed firefighter equipment. The association also provided support with bandages. Archemed provided a transporter for the convoy and covered the entire travelling costs of the aid delivery. In addition, the Delbrück team organised three restored fire engines including extensive equipment, 25 generators, medical supplies, winter clothing and sleeping bags. Ukraine-Hilfe Delbrück and Archemed are now working hand in hand for the good cause.
In addition to the financial and material support from Archemed, the Delbrückers also benefited from the organisation’s contacts. When they arrived in Ukraine, Mikahil, a confidant and friend of Achemed, joined the convoy. He accompanied the transport and guided them safely to the country’s cities and crisis areas. He also assisted with various challenges, such as at customs: a horse trailer was part of the convoy, but its departure was not documented, meaning that according to Ukrainian information, it should still be in the country. Mikahel mediated, and after the trailer had been screened, the authorities released it for the onward journey. He also helped to complete the paperwork for the new fire engines. Thanks to Mikahel, it was possible to enter Ukraine in a record time of 2.5 hours.
During the mission, the volunteers were confronted with numerous air alarms. During the night, they were able to observe the air defences fighting Russian drones and missiles. Curfews at night forced them to make stopovers. The journey to the front left lasting impressions: bombed-out cities, burnt-out houses, destroyed infrastructure. However, the first messages and photos full of gratitude reached the volunteers during the return journey. The knowledge of this important help confirms and encourages the volunteers in their commitment.