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52 Phonebox Magazine | February 2025Comfort bags updateCharity co-ordinator Lynne King writes:Like many of you over the festive period I received photos on my phone from friends and family. However, one photo stood out, and it%u2019s printed here.Since May 2024 I have been involved with HelpUkraineBAMK, based in Milton Keynes, filling comfort bags for hospital patients, elderly in their homes, soldiers on the front line and more recently Christmas bags for children. Olney community and surrounding villages have supported me by sewing and fi lling over 400 bags! The soldiers in this photo are holding %u2018our%u2019 bags. I recognise my writing on the labels.I asked Tanya, one of the directors from HelpUkraineBAMK, for her thoughts. %u201cLife in Ukraine this winter has been as harsh as ever,%u201d she said. %u201cThe Russians continue to target utility supplies, so there are power restrictions everywhere and, when it%u2019s really cold, having no heating or lighting is a nightmare. This aff ects everyone, not least the soldiers on the frontline. %u201cOn rotation they spend three weeks in a freezing, muddy trench, constantly chased by drones and then two weeks off (if they are lucky %u2013 due to depleting troop numbers some have been on the frontline for months).That time will be spent without power or heating trying to contact loved ones, clean their clothes and cook a proper meal. %u201cThis is why we try to raise morale by supplying some basic treats in a Soldier Comfort Bag this winter, so they know they are not forgotten.%u201dIf you would like to donate any items for these bags (for both men and women) please get in touch with me, 07766 425523, as I am coordinating this appeal in Olney.Suggestions for bags include: toothbrush, toothpaste, fl annel, soap, deodorant, hand cream, moisturiser, lip salve, thick dark socks, dark woolly hat, disposable razors, shaving gel, cold and fl u tablets, paracetamol, foot powder, antiseptic cream, energy tablets, coff ee and hot chocolate sachets, sweets, cereal bars, disposable hand and foot warmers. OLNEY UKRAINEAID NEWSNew donations callHelp Ukraine BAMK has issued a new poster shown below requesting equipment and vital supplies for the Spring season.Shenley Brook End Village Hall is given as the drop-off point for donations but, if you are struggling to get to Milton Keynes, small items can be taken to the Phonebox Magazine offi ces or, for larger items, call volunteers Alex Thomsen (07709 535923) or Lynne King (07766 425523) for assistance.