From the very beginning of russia’s large scale aggression against Ukraine in February 2022, many caring and kind people have extended a much-needed helping hand to Ukraine.

Grimbergen Abbey, Father Karel, and the Abbey Scouts played an important role and became an important help and rescue for many Ukrainians who left the country and those who remained in Ukraine under russian shelling.

Since the full-scale invasion, the Abbey has done a lot to help our country: more than 60 people were brought from Ukraine and accommodated in Flanders, 5 tonnes of medical equipment and 8 ambulances were delivered to Ukraine, 2 schools were repaired after the bombing. More than 100,000 euros were raised for Ukraine thanks to individuals, the municipality of Grimbergen, associations, and schools from Merchtem and Grimbergen.

And that’s not even all these people have done for us. As part of Father Karel’s visit earlier this year to a school in Chernihiv, where thanks to the massive support of the Father Karel for Ukraine campaign, all the broken windows were replaced and work began on building a bomb shelter so that students could study even during the shelling.

With great hospitality, Grimbergen Abbey welcomed Ukrainian long-standing friends and partners, Ukrainians, representatives of the diplomatic missions and many others on such an important day for every Ukrainian – Ukraine’s Independence Day. Even though everyone who could come was away from home for one reason or another, they had the opportunity to remember, hear, and feel the Ukrainian spirit that prevailed in Grimbergen Abbey.

We cannot fully express our gratitude to Grimbergen Abbey, Father Karel and all those who have helped and continue to help Ukrainians every day. These people with big kind hearts have given hope and a chance for life to those from whom russia tried to take it away.

Grimbergen Abbey is our faithful assistant and true friend, who lent a helping hand and supported us in a difficult moment for Ukraine.

The Embassy and Ukrainians thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Thank you for standing with Ukraine!