About Us
Defend Ukraine Appeal is the largest Australian fundraising effort for non-lethal military aid for Ukraine. It is managed by the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO).
Until July 2023, Defend Ukraine Appeal operated under the name “U-Help”. U-Help raised over $780,000 from the start of the full-scale Russian invasion for protective gear and life-saving equipment (such as surveillance equipment, off-road vehicles and thermal imaging devices) for Ukrainian defenders. For a few years prior to this, U-Help also supported first aid and educational needs in Ukraine.
U-Help was re-branded Defend Ukraine Appeal in July 2023 to be more strongly identifiable and effective in raising critical funds for Ukrainian defenders. Defend Ukraine Appeal continues to:
- raise funds for the provision of non-lethal military aid to the brave defenders of Ukraine
- be managed by the AFUO, with the assistance of the AFUO Defence sub-committee
- allocate funds for a variety of non-lethal military aid programs.
About AFUO
The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) is a peak body for 22 national community organisations throughout Australia. It is widely regarded as the representative voice on matters concerning the Ukrainian community in Australia.
Member organisations include churches, state community organisations, youth and women’s organisations, credit co-operative movement, educational, returned service, language and other organisations. The Board comprises executive members who represent key facets of community life in Australia.
The AFUO is a member of the Ukrainian World Congress, the peak body for Ukrainian organisations in the diaspora.