The Swiss initiators of the association Valmez4Shelter have been close friends with the Irgl family in Valmez for over 30 years and are familiar with the town and surrounding villages from frequent visits in the past. Marek (historian) and Jana (teacher) are well connected in the city: Marek was deputy mayor for a few years, and Jana is now a member of the city parliament. The couple also publishes a monthly newspaper («Obelisk»). This means they have good contacts with authorities, churches and other volunteers.
Immediately after the arrival of the first refugees, we transferred a first, larger amount for emergency aid. Since then, a circle of supporters has collected over CHF 50,000 within a few months and financed various projects. In August 2022 we founded the association Valmez4Shelter.
«In 1968, the Czech people experienced a Russian occupation firsthand, and because they know the hardship, they stand with the Ukrainian refugees in solidarity. Now they need our support to be able to help even more.»
«We always present the support of Valmez4Shelter as an international aid effort, when the Czech side provides the space and helping hands and the Swiss side provides financial support. That way, the Ukrainian people can perceive this aid as part of the aid of the civilized world. This is psychologically very important so we can give the Ukrainians the feeling that their country is an integral part of this world.»
«The atrocities in Ukraine, but also the intimidation of the Russian government against the Russian people are simply unbearable. With my commitment to Valmez4Shelter, I have the opportunity to get involved and not just watch the countries in Eastern Europe get devastated.»
«Through Marek and Jana, it is possible to respond directly to the very specific needs and problems of the Ukrainians who found refuge in Valmez. This is very important to me.»
«I have been friends with Jana and Marek and visiting the city of Valmez for more than 30 years. With our donations we hope that a lot of the suffering in Valmez can be alleviated.»
«We always say that Switzerland is neutral. But are we really? With the purchase of natural gas, oil and uranium from Russia, we have enabled Putin's mafia state in the first place. Let us at least help the victims now as much as we can! The Ukrainians need our help now in the Czech Republic and later on when rebuilding their country.»
«I feel very privileged and grateful that I live in a safe place like Switzerland. That's why I want to get involved to support people in need. Children are particularly close to my heart. In Valmez, our association makes it possible to offer support for a nursery school program and help Ukrainian students to participate in school camps. Projects like this give Ukrainian children a sense of belonging and security.»
«The war in Ukraine impacts all of Europe. We have to stand with the Ukrainian people, even more so now, all of us.»