Trip report

Trip 17: Snowy Conditions

On Thursday, February 13, Robin and Koen set off on the return leg of Trip 17 under challenging winter conditions. Heavy snowfall on our trip to Kyiv made driving difficult, and the journey quickly became more eventful than expected.

Trip 17: Snowy Conditions

On Thursday, February 13, Robin and Koen set off on the return leg of Trip 17 under challenging winter conditions. Heavy snowfall on our trip to Kyiv made driving difficult, and the journey quickly became more eventful than expected.

While travelling on the highway, we found ourselves in the middle of a serious traffic accident. Several vehicles lost control due to the snowy conditions, and for a moment it was a very close call. Fortunately, everyone involved managed to avoid hitting us, and we escaped without damage or injuries. The incident caused significant delays, but after losing roughly half a day, we safely arrived back in Kyiv.

Once there, all remaining equipment and supplies were handed over to April for further distribution to the units and volunteers who need them most. As always, it was reassuring to see how quickly donated items continue their journey to the front lines and humanitarian projects across Ukraine.

After completing the handover, we spent the weekend in Kyiv, taking the opportunity to meet with local partners, volunteers, and friends who continue their important work despite the ongoing challenges of war.

The return trip also included a special mission. On behalf of a Ukrainian volunteer currently living in Belgium, we brought a cat from Ukraine to its owner. After a long journey across Europe, the cat was safely reunited with its family, providing a small but meaningful positive moment amidst the many challenges faced by Ukrainians displaced by the war.

Trip 17 once again demonstrated that every journey comes with its own unexpected obstacles, but also with countless examples of resilience, solidarity, and determination. We would like to thank everyone who supports our missions and helps make these deliveries possible. Together, we keep moving forward.

Delivering hope to Ukraine, one van at a time.

Vanguard is an ANBI-registered non-profit transporting donated IT equipment and medical supplies from the Netherlands to trusted partner organizations in Ukraine.

Organization

Stichting Vanguard

RSIN 866355595

KvK 93324847

IBAN NL32 RABO 0197 650 171