Hastings Youngsters Swim to Support Ukrainians in Bomb Shelters
Three boys from Hastings are currently in final preparations for a 12-hour non-stop swimming challenge that they hope will make a real difference to children impacted by the war in Ukraine.
Jonathan Hibbs (9), James Fisher (11) and Elijah Bigg (11) – who all swim for Hastings Seagull Swim Club – will be hoping to swim between 25km and 35km during the challenge in the pool at Claremont Senior School in Bodium.
The trio, who have already raised £2,000, are doing the challenge in aid of the charity Novi, which will be using the money to purchase play kits and equip them in bomb shelters in Ukraine to help children deal with the stress of life under bombardment.
James Fisher, one of the Hastings-based swimmers says, “We’ve all seen the videos and photos showing how much the Ukrainian people are suffering because of the war, and children are even more vulnerable. We wanted to do something to highlight what they are having to go through and to raise money that would help bring them some joy in the midst of a really challenging situation.”
The effects of trauma on children in war zones is often overlooked. And even when children are not witnessing terrible things directly, having to repeatedly go into a bomb shelter for protection increases stress levels and mental health problems. The Novi Life Kits can help children in this situation relax, play, deal with trauma and stress and continue learning regardless of where they are.
Novi states: “With 28 years’ experience working in war-torn countries, the Novi team has time-tested capacity to help children living in war and conflict. We also believe that in all communities, it’s local people who understand best what their challenges are and how to analyse and overcome them.
“With their intimate knowledge of culture and community, they are best equipped to find sustainable solutions to the complex issues they face as a result of war and armed conflict. The role of our staff members is to administrate resources and processes to support and strengthen local leaders and their communities. Novi also has a diverse network of relationships, organisations, and professionals who we collaborate with to achieve our goal of strengthening children traumatised by war.”
Steve Gumaer, founder of Novi says, “We are so grateful to Jonathan, James and Elijah for using what they have – their ability to swim – to raise money and awareness of the terrible conditions that Ukrainian children have become accustomed to. These children deserve their childhood and we are determined that they do lose their sense of joy and fun, simply because of the circumstances that have been forced upon them and their families.”
Novi also provides training on trauma to psychologists, teachers and parents in Ukraine.
To donate to the challenge go to go.eventgroovefundraising.com/swim/ For more details on the Novi Life Kit click here: novi.ngo/lifekit
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