New Forest for Ukraine, based in Lymington, has now delivered nearly 700 tonnes of humanitarian aid since it began operations.

The most recent delivery included the charity’s 650th generator – part of a target set earlier this year as energy insecurity deepens across Ukraine.

READ MORE: Charity ramping up efforts to help freezing people in Ukraine this winter

New Forest for Ukraine’s 60th lorry of aid has reached Ukraine. (Image: New Forest for Ukraine)

Mandy Haynes, lead trustee, said: “New Forest generosity is fantastic and we continue to need every donation we can get – we have up to date lists on our website at www.newforestforukraine.org.

“But we also need to purchase extra emergency items ourselves such as first aid, generators, portable stoves and hygiene products.”

The charity, which collects and ships donations from across the New Forest and surrounding areas, is now raising funds to send two more lorries before Christmas.

It has launched a winter appeal for £40,000 to cover the cost of transport and to purchase essential items like generators, portable stoves, hygiene kits, food and first aid supplies.

As Russia continues to target Ukraine’s power infrastructure, the supplies are becoming increasingly vital for families left homeless or sheltering in damaged buildings.

Ms Haynes said: “Recently we sent out 2,000 whistles and lanyards for families to give their children so that in the event of attack or building collapse, they can alert rescuers.

“This shows the kinds of thing which we can purchase and put together which every parent here in the UK would understand the importance of.”

To bring some comfort during the festive season, the charity has also sent more than 1,000 Christmas parcels and tote bags filled with hats, gloves, toiletries and treats for children and vulnerable adults.

The charity hopes to raise £40,000 by March to ensure deliveries can continue.

Ms Haynes said: “Nothing is too small. £1 gets one of our trucks a mile to Ukraine. Every £1 counts.

“I can’t tell you how much what the people of the New Forest and surrounding areas are doing means to ordinary people in Ukraine.

“The messages of thanks we receive here at NFFU are constant and sometimes overwhelming.”

Donations can be made via the charity’s website or by texting NFFU5 to 70255 to donate £5, or NFFU10 to 70255 to donate £10.