PEOPLE across Somerset are being urged to support an appeal to help ensure every host and Ukranian family arriving in the county receive a Pantry Packer and Welcome Pack.

Volunteers at Somerset Aid for Ukraine are filling each Pantry Packer with essential household items such as laundry detergent, fabric softener, toilet roll, household cleaners, plasters and food such as pasta, rice, tea, coffee, jams, marmalades, tinned soups, tomatoes, beans and fruit, biscuits, cereal and soft drinks.

Organiser Michelle Edwards said: "We're looking for everything that most families use and that these families will need to accommodate their extra guests.

"Welcome packs are created based on gender and age and include essential toiletries and some gifts and treats to welcome those who are new to our community.

"We aim to create approximately 200 Pantry Packer and at least 400 welcome packs in the coming weeks.

"Our community have been amazing, so generous and supportive.

"Most items are being readily donated, however some of the more expensive items are understandably in short short supply, including laundry detergent, fabric conditioner, coffee, hot chocolate and rice.

"I therefore need your help to fund these items so that our packs are truly beneficial to our hosts and their Ukrainian guests."

So far almost £200 of the £500 goal has been raised - to contribute click on this GoFundMe page link.

Michelle said 30 hosts have already received their packs, while a further 16 are being prepared.

She added: "Between them these hosts are providing a safe home to 67 adults and 40 children. That's 107 people safe in Somerset.

"In total we know of 143 hosts who have matched, 40 who are in discussion and a further 64 homes available.

"We still have a lot of packs to prepare so please keep giving."

You can deliver your donations to Compass Wellbeing, Unit 7 Belvedere Trading Estate, Taunton, TA1 1BH, 10am till 5pm, Monday to Friday.

You can purchase items HERE from the Amazon Wish, which can be delivered directly to Compass Wellbeing. 

Or you can donate via the GoFundMe link.

Michelle said: "Please keep giving and share this post and help us to give these wonderful people the support and welcome they deserve."