Galway woman’s fifth aid convoy mission to Ukraine

The autumn trip marks her fifth aid convoy to the country, her eighth visit since 2022, and her second trip this year with the UK-based group CONVOY4UKRAINE.

Since the outbreak of war, Ailish has been involved as a volunteer, personally transporting supplies across Europe to families and communities in need.

Her commitment has been made possible by the ongoing support of family, friends, and the wider community in Woodford, Co Galway, whose empathy with Ukraine’s suffering remains strong.

“Ireland, as a country that has had to strive for its own peace, understands the importance of standing with Ukraine. The invasion continues to impact peace and stability across Europe highlighted recently by the impact to airspace,” said Alish.

Just a few weeks ago she was contacted by volunteer members of a fire brigade in Ukraine, whose crews and fire engines have been frequent targets of drones and missiles.

Their emergency evacuation vehicle was destroyed in an attack, and they now urgently need a replacement to continue evacuating civilians and carrying out life-saving work.

Working with local supporters, she has set a fundraising target of €3,000. The funds will go directly towards the cost of purchasing the replacement pickup vehicle, preparing it for the tough work ahead, and providing a full tank of diesel on delivery.

Leonard’s Garage, Gurteeny, is preparing the jeep, which has been nicknamed ‘Cailín Deas’ for the convoy. No donation is too small, as each contribution brings the group closer to delivering this critical vehicle and aid.

The vehicle will be filled with essential aid — medical supplies, hygiene items, warm clothing, and, if funds allow, a generator to support vital services when the power goes out. Ailish plans to spend time volunteering in a community kitchen during her stay if the local situation allows.

Importantly, like all volunteers on the convoy, Ailish covers her own expenses — hotels, food, extra fuel, and flights home — so that all donations go directly to the aid mission.

“Perhaps this will be our last trip during war — the next could be in a time of peace. Until then, this work remains vital to local communities very similar to our own,” she said.

■ Donations can be made directly to Ailish’s GoFundMe: Support CONVOY4UKRAINE Emergency Evacuation Vehicle.

Pictured: Convoy....Ailish O’Reilly is again off to deliver humanitarian aid to Ukraine.