Iryna Kennedy and her husband are travelling to Odessa to look after her mother.

She said: “I moved to Northern Ireland from Ukraine over 25 years ago. I was warmly welcomed in my adoptive country. I have raised three children here. Having been privileged to have two places to call home I am keenly aware of how many people are losing their homes in Ukraine.

“In a couple of days my husband and I are travelling to Odessa to stay with my elderly mother. My heart breaks when I hear that the beautiful harbour where I walked as a child is being bombed and those with whom I grew up with are building defences.

“I ask you to join with me in prayer for the courageous people of Ukraine. I also ask you for some practical help to raise funds for the Red Cross in Ukraine. Your donation will go directly to the charity to help someone in need of food, water, first aid, medicine, clothes and shelter.”

You can contribute to her Red Cross fund here