In this episode of Behind the Byline, host Jaden Jefferson speaks with Alona Matchenko, co-founder of Toledo Helps Ukraine, a local nonprofit making a global impact.
From relocating 67 Ukrainian refugees to providing frontline aid, the organization has been committed to Ukraine since the start of the war.
Matchenko highlights:
- the nonprofit’s latest initiative, From Surplus to Survival, which repurposes excess inventory from U.S. businesses into life-saving supplies for Ukrainians. In just six weeks, they’ve gathered nearly 20 pallets of goods, including medical supplies, hygiene kits, durable clothing, flashlights and even generators.
- the response from Northwest Ohio businesses and individuals, calling their support vital in both humanitarian relief and maintaining community, and urges listeners to start supporting Ukraine in simple yet impactful ways — whether it’s sending prayers, sharing awareness or contributing resources.
- how Toledo Helps Ukraine continues to support families both locally and abroad, from resettling Ukrainian refugees in Ohio to sending critical supplies overseas.
- The team is currently fundraising to ship a 24-foot container of donated goods, which could be worth up to half a million dollars in relief but costs just $8,000–$9,000 to transport.
“Stand with the underdog,” Matchenko says. “Let it be known that you didn’t stay silent.”
New episodes of the Behind the Byline audio news podcast drop every Wednesday on Pod Station.
Behind the Byline is a production of the Toledo Free Press.
