Southampton Kids Collecting Supplies To Help Ukraine

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Even the smallest children can make a big difference when trying to help those struggling in war-torn Ukraine.

Southampton Elementary School students are participating in a collection drive sponsored by the school's Opening Act Rotary Club, in collaboration with Southampton resident and parent Natalie Massa and her non-profit dedicated to the cause.

The drive kicked off with Tracey Koszalka’s kindergarten class coloring paper hearts with the colors of the Ukrainian flag to decorate collection boxes at the elementary school. The kindergartners met Massa, who is from Ukraine and has several family members and friends impacted by the invasion and war, the district said.

Massa also spoke to the students in her daughter’s class about spreading support, love and kindness to the people of her country, the district said.

Opening Act Rotary Club members, led by adviser Nick Epley, are collecting items — including clothes, blankets, toys, diapers, toiletries and first aid supplies — at the school on an ongoing basis. All donations will be delivered to Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church and other local churches that are collecting and shipping to Ukraine.