University of Coimbra supports Ukrainian families

^{Translation by Diana Taborda}

Around 50 people are currently settled and Pavilion 2 of Coimbra University Stadium (EUC). They are part of a group of Ukrainian refugees brought to Coimbra by volunteers. The University Stadium and the canteens, where they have their meals, are the starting point. Afterwards, each family will be accommodated in houses. The UC thus joins the volunteers who welcome and aid the victims of the war in Ukraine.

According to the Vice-Rector for Quality, Sports and Social Services, António Figueiredo, "the UC was contacted by the unofficial humanitarian aid group and had an immediate positive response". "Upon an appeal from civil society, the University could not remain indifferent and had to be involved. This is the identity matrix of the UC", he adds.

The aid is mainly logistical. "We chose to do it in Pavilion 2, a more welcoming building, easier to heat and with all the necessary resources", says António Figueiredo. The Vice-Rector explains that the UC quickly took another step "to give the greatest possible comfort to those who live this drama and see their lives interrupted or suspended": using the EUC facilities, namely the canteens, the UC is providing three meals per day in the canteen to the Ukrainian families.

In addition, inside the Pavilion, there is a catering area and "a space for children, with toys". "I leave an important note about the solidarity and spirit that was created throughout the University, with the nursery and kindergarten of the Social Services mobilising to set this space", adds António Figueiredo.

"None of this would have been possible without the support of the University", states volunteer Margarida Mesquita Carvalho. "From the very first moment, with all the willingness and support, institutional and other - the UC employees who came to help us as volunteers. The UC, as an institution, was there, and the UC staff were there, with their hearts and souls", she says.

Margarida Mesquita Carvalho and Fátima Vilaça are part of the "Hope Journey" group that has been set up, along with several other organisations. " Everything is just getting started," says Fátima Vilaça. "We had no idea of the extent of the project, nor of the generosity of the people," she says.

"Our aim as volunteers is not to abandon these people to their fate. We want to build a network of contacts and a support network, to assist them in whatever is needed. From here, they need other help, to understand where the places are, the schools, for example. And we'll be here to continue giving support", adds Margarida Mesquita Carvalho.