Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

With tensions continuing to grow in Ukraine, the Andalusia Public Library wants to help with donations and supplies for children who are facing uncertainty in their country every single day.

“I would like to encourage my library children and the children throughout Covington County to donate specific items for the children in Ukraine. I want tangible items children can relate to and also those that have been requested by Ukrainian refugees for their children. I’m asking for crayons, coloring books, and socks. There will be a donation box at the library for anyone interested in sending aid to these children,” Children’s Librarian Caryl Lee Ray said.

Ray added that donations would be accepted until March 31.

“Over 15,000 libraries over there are doing the same things we do here. Refugees were using computers to check on family and friends. Some libraries were offering shelter for those displaced. They have been bombed, and it breaks my heart. There is a list of items needed, but I want to concentrate on something children can be part of. Imagine sending a little bit of normal to their chaos.”

She hopes more children and the local schools will contribute in any way they can.

“In collaboration with the public library, Andalusia Elementary School, Opp Elementary School, and LBWCC have donation boxes available at their facilities. Each institution is encouraging its students to help children across the world. They are dealing with issues far beyond their control, and if we can shed a little light on this dark matter, that may help them cope with everything. Please consider doing this for the kids and the betterment of their young lives,” she said.

The Andalusia Public Library is located at 212 South Three Notch Street and is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information email library@cityofandalusia.com or call 334-222-6612.

“I want to help because children need that distraction from their crumbling world. I didn’t have to run from missiles today, and my kid may have worn mismatched socks, but his feet were warm. Please help us collect and send help to the mommas and children over there,” Ray said.