Following a successful first event, Ukrainians living in the Romsey area, along with local supporters, will hold another candle-making workshop on Sunday, January 19, from 11.30am to 3.30pm at Woodley Scout Hall on Braishfield Road.
The workshop will focus on creating trench candles, an essential for soldiers.
These candles, made from old food tins packed with corrugated cardboard and filled with melted wax, provide light and warmth in trenches, as well as the means to heat food and drinks.
The initiative came from Oksana Kravchenko, a Ukrainian refugee who has lived in Test Valley for two years.
Oksana said: “Last time we made nearly 400 trench candles which were sent out on an overland transport to Ukraine. This time we are holding a longer workshop and have streamlined the making process so hope to finish the day with at least 500 completed candles. Children will have a chance to make gifts for the soldiers and we are also using the occasion to organise a toy swap.”
Local residents who have previously hosted other refugees have joined her in forming a support group to organise these events.
The workshop is open to anyone interested in helping, with additional activities planned for children.
All materials and equipment are provided, although organisers are seeking old candles for use in the workshops.
For more information about the workshop and Romsey’s Ukraine Support Group, contact Roland Matthews at roljmat@gmail.com or call 07505 507825.