Ukrainian refugee children to give back to County Durham by helping the homeless

A group of Ukrainian children who have settled in County Durham are giving back to the community that took them in - with a 'support for the homeless event' planned for later this month.

Ten children, who are originally from Ukraine and moved over with their families from the war-torn country, will be helping homeless people and animals in County Durham as part of an initiative to give back to people.

Sanctuary 21, Salvation Army, Saddler Street, Durham (Image: GOOGLE MAPS)

Taking place on June 29, the event, termed 'free meals for everyone that needs it' will be based at Salvation Army's 'Sanctuary 21' on Saddler Street in Durham City.

The event, which was created as a social action project to support the local community and raise awareness of the homeless in County Durham, will see a one-day food drive.

Ukrainian flag (Image: PA MEDIA)

Before the event took place, the children had to present their project at a pitch to secure funding - with three charities involved in this project, including Investing in Children, The Salvation Army and Durham City of Sanctuary.

The children want "to show homeless people that there are still those who care about them and who are ready to help. Also to show the community that even the kids/teenagers are capable of helping, so it is an easy task for everyone".

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Anna Nemesh, who is the Coordinator and Communications Administrator at Durham City of Sanctuary, who is a Ukrainian refugee herself, is involved in the project - and has spoken about the importance of "giving back" to the community.

She said: "With help from the Salvation Army - this project has been possible. It will see Ukrainian children serve up a range of Ukrainian dishes for the community.

"It will give something back - which is important.

"As well as helping homeless people - another group will be helping homeless animals."