Kingspan supports Ukraine, among others by building Blue Dot centers

The war in Ukraine continues. It’s been a few months since it erupted, and although time is passing, humanitarian needs are not diminishing. UNICEF invariably helps children and their families in this time of crisis, and with the support of partners, including Kingspan, this assistance can be even more effective.

UNICEF to help those fleeing Ukraine

An estimated 6.2 million people had left the war zone by mid-July. Among them are children, who are most vulnerable to both physical and psychological harm. It is on helping the youngest and their families that UNICEF, the world-renowned organization created by the United Nations General Assembly, focuses. Its key focus is field work – reaching out to those most in need through Blue Dot centers, among others.

Blue Dot Centers – what are they and what is the help?

“Blue dots” are places where all people fleeing Ukraine – children, women and men, regardless of nationality – can find a safe space and immediate medical, emotional and legal support. Blue Dot hubs provide the little ones with a safe, welcoming atmosphere, suitable for resting, playing and just being a kid, at a time when their world suddenly turned upside down; when they faced the trauma of leaving family, friends and everything familiar in fear and panic.

Use of the services available at Blue Dot is, of course, free. They can be easily recognized, thanks to the UNICEF logo and the distinctive blue dot on a white background. The most important function of these outlets is to provide professional, practical and empathetic support for the onward journey – whether to family, friends, acquaintances or aid destinations organized by the country’s government. The sites are located at border crossings and reception points, as well as in several major cities in Poland: in Gdynia (ul. 10 Lutego 26), Kraków (Kraków Główny, ul. Stanisława Worcella 6), Poznań (ul. Maltanska 1), Warsaw (ul. Kamionkowska 11) and Wrocław (ul. Piłsudskiego 69/73).

Aid centers are established thanks to the joint work of many partners

Although Blue Dot is signed with the logo of the international organization UNICEF, its creation is made possible by the joint work of many partners. One of them is Kingspan. The company is supporting the venture by fully funding the construction of five centers located at key points along the migration routes. A total of $750,000 was donated for this purpose.

Kingspan’s extensive assistance in difficult times

In June 2022, Kingspan, a global leader in advanced insulation solutions for energy-efficient construction, announced it would invest $200 million to build a new building technology campus in Ukraine. The facility is expected to fit in with the increasingly apparent current need for energy-efficient, environmentally friendly construction, and to support local residents by guaranteeing more than 600 jobs. According to the plan, the project will be completed within the next few years. According to Gene Murtagh, CEO of Kingspan, a team has already been formed to select the best location for the venture. The investment is expected to prove helpful in solving three key current crises: climate, energy security and war.

“The new Building Technologies Campus will make a positive contribution on all three fronts: supporting Ukraine in rebuilding its economy, meeting the demand in Central and Eastern Europe for energy-efficient buildings, and helping Europe reduce its dependence on oil and gas imports,” Gene Murtagh reported.