Annual Review 2023, Part 3: Assistance Action for Ukraine

As of: December 27, 2023 at 6:00 AM

Solidarity with war victims in Ukraine from the sea: Volunteers pulled almost 220 mattresses from the cruise ship “MS Europa” in early August. Shipping company Hapag-Lloyd donates sleeping pads to those in need in Ukraine.

On the same day they go by truck to Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. Transport is organized by “The Port Helps” association. Anja van Eijsten and her team have been carrying out such relief operations since 2009, including in crisis areas.

Special donation to the needy

The association has great networks in the port of Hamburg, but such a large donation is something special: “The mattresses are great, especially when they come from ships, and they are changed often. They are of great quality,” says van Eijsten.

More info

Eight people died in the Ulsterdorf shooting in March. The pictures went all over the world. The first part of the review of 2023. Further

Firefighters and fire engines at a large fire at a truck stop in Rothenburgcht. © NEWS5

One of Hamburg's biggest fires in decades broke out on Bilstrasse on Easter. The second part of the review of 2023. Further

Rescue vehicles are parked in front of a large construction site in Hamburg Hafencity. © Screenshot

Five construction workers from Albania died in the accident. Donations are being collected. The fourth part of the review of 2023. Further

Parts of mattresses distributed in Hamburg

A large number of donated mattresses help the association save some in Hamburg and distribute them to those in need in the city. Not only does the association accept donations from companies, everyone can contribute because “Port Help” also accepts donations from private individuals.

Large warehouse with fundraising collections

“PortHelps” distributes the received donations in Hamburg, storing them in its 900 square meter warehouse in the Stellingen district. For example, basic equipment for refugees or former homeless people is packed here. “From cutlery to dishes, coffee mugs, pots and pans,” says van Eijsten, it's all here for those who need it.

More money is needed to increase demand

Over the past six months, more than 110 people in Hamburg have received essential items. More than 90 assistants are active here, some even full time. But the club needs more money to keep up with the growing demand for mattresses, furniture, food and more.

“Whether it's ten euros from a student or 100 euros from a senior citizen – everything matters. It's all implemented by us. It's all needed now because we're reaching so many people who need it. We're happy with any support,” emphasizes Anja van Eijsden. The club's motto is true: don't talk too long, but work things out together.

More info