But how can something that is meant to divide people, become the connector?
While speaking about solidarity and unity, the last location that might occur in one’s mind is the border post, as since the inception of times, borders were administrative units that served the purpose of separating, not connecting; however, this story tells how something that was meant to divide people, became the connector by the power of humanity.
At the border check-point between Ukraine and Romania, there was an old wooden bridge dividing the two countries from one another.
Since the 24th of February, this old wooden bridge has been crossed by tens of thousands of refugees who had left their lives behind, running with small bags and heads full of fear.
Since the 25th of February, YMCA Volunteers have been standing on the other side of the bridge, waiting for friends they had never met before with a smile on their faces and arms wide open for a hug.
Around twenty young volunteers from YMCA Baia Mare, Romania created task groups operating at the Ukrainian border, providing help for those in need.
“We arrived here as fast as we could, I think it was the 25th of February. Our initial task was to assess the needs of the youth workers at the border, providing refreshments and support during the long hours for the volunteers. Later we were able to register and create a tracking system in order to pinpoint the journey of every family coming over – a collective effort by all the NGOs.” Andy Tomsa, YMCA Romania, volunteer.
However, help provided by YMCA volunteers was crucial as it involves not only informational help, but also emotional support.
“We did not speak the same language, but we used all means to communicate with Ukrainians arriving at the registration stations. They were scared and confused, I did not need to speak Ukrainian to understand this. I did not know how to help them or make them feel better, I was only trying to listen to them and maybe offer a cup of warm tea. Sometimes, on the way back home we would see refugees without cars, of course, we would offer a ride to the town. I was amazed by how much they trusted us. Some of them still keep in touch with us, we became friends very fast” – Edina, a volunteer from YMCA Romania.
Indeed, a nameless old wooden bridge, a divider that was separating two countries from each other by the power of law, became a connector by the power of humane deeds. Alongside the road and in the registration tents, one can see toys left for children and supportive messages for refugees. It is heartwarming to see people who have just met holding hands, hugging, and caring about each other. At the border, one can see people with sad eyes, greeting with respect and care – and without special uniforms, it would have been very hard to tell who lived on which side of the border before.
YMCA continues its mission at the border and will provide help to those in need.
“When they (Ukrainians) go back home, I hope I will be here, so I can wish them a safe and peaceful way back home” – Bianca, 17 years old Volunteer from YMCA Romania.
