NO-ONE can have followed the harrowing reports from Ukraine in recent weeks without thinking how they might personally be able to help those most in need.
Atrocities against the civilian population are emerging daily, from shelling of residential areas of Kyiv to the devastating air strike that destroyed a maternity hospital in Maruipol.
Almost 3 million people have already fled their homes for the safety of other European countries in a humanitarian crisis on a scale not witnessed since the Second World War.
It is human nature that ordinary people will want to reach out to those who are suffering and the Irish public have already been demonstrating their generosity in a variety of ways.
The Republic, in common with other EU states, moved quickly to open its doors to those seeking sanctuary from the war.
The British government was severely criticised for dragging its feet but has now agreed a scheme which could see tens of thousands of refugees placed with host families.
Households will be offered £350 a month if they agree to take in an individual or family for at least six months.
Sponsors will be subject to checks and support is promised for local services to accommodate the new arrivals. It must be hoped the distribution of such funds in Northern Ireland is not complicated by the collapse of the executive.
For some families, with the space and time to be a good host, taking in a refugee will be an ideal way to help those left with no home of their own.
For others, simply donating whatever money they can spare will be the best way to make a difference.
The Irish News has this week partnered with the Disasters Emergency Committee, a coalition of a range of leading aid organisations, in a special appeal to readers to help get funds to where they are needed most.
The money will go to charities working with local partners both in Ukraine and at border crossings to supply food, medicine and other essential needs.
A donation of just £20 will provide enough food for a person for a month, while £50 can buy blankets to keep four families warm.
Although the cost of living crisis has put enormous pressure on family finances, the appalling events in Ukraine have put many of our own troubles in perspective.
The generosity of the Irish people can always be counted on at times of crisis and relief organisations are confident they will dig deep once again.
