All proceeds will go to Red Cross Ukraine.

As countless lives in Ukraine are being torn apart by violence and citizens find themselves displaced, many people are trying to find ways to help from abroad. Now, three friends have pulled together to create a fundraiser to help those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukranian-born Irish students, Andiry Babiy, Yuriy Kovalchuk, and Daryna Kushnir created Action4Ukraine as a way to help people suffering in Ukraine from here in Ireland. Together, they have decided to run an online raffle and private auction to raise vital funds and rally support. The fundraiser takes place both online and in-person at the Regent House in Trinity College Dublin on Friday 11 March at 5.30pm. Red Cross Ukraine is currently on the ground in the country where they are repairing vital infrastructure, supporting health facilities, and helping families with life-saving food and hygiene items. “We chose to donate money to the Red Cross because they rescue civilians from dangerous areas and reinstate vital infrastructures such as water supplies and electricity," Daryna said. "Without this help, so many more people would perish and it would be very difficult to protect the country." Some of the organisers have friends and family back in Ukraine. Andriy's wife, Sofia, is among them. He is currently travelling to Poland to meet her at the Ukrainian border and bring her to Dublin. The  group will auction various items at the event, including original artworks that have been donated by generous Irish artists. There'll also be raffle prizes from businesses including BingoLoco, Cabra Castle, Bobby Healy, Mór Irish Gin and more. The online auction has a limited capacity of 1000 people, and donors will receive their prizes once proof of donation to the Red Cross is confirmed. Tickets for the event are priced at €10 and can be purchased here. You can also register for the online auction here. Feature Image via Sasko Lazarov/RollingNews.ie