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What is Toledo Helps Ukraine?
Toledo Helps Ukraine was founded by Alona Matchenko and Hope Luther, law students at the University of Toledo, in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Help and Hope from the Beginning
Our Why
Within days of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Toledo Helps Ukraine (THU) was born. As missiles struck homes and tanks rolled across Ukraine, University of Toledo law students Alona Matchenko and Hope Luther launched a humanitarian response—starting with a campus rally that grew into a strategic nonprofit committed to helping Ukraine until it wins a just and lasting peace.
THU quickly earned 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, proving that ordinary citizens can stand up to tyranny and make a global impact.
Why Our Work Must Continue
The war Putin boasted would last only three days is entering its fourth brutal year:
- Last year, 3x more Ukrainians died than were born.
- 14.6 million people — 40% of Ukraine’s population — need humanitarian aid.
- 3.3 million, including 800,000 children, live on the front lines without reliable food or water.
- Russia has destroyed 1.5 million homes, 1,300 schools, and 1,600 medical facilities, including maternity hospitals.
- Critical infrastructure — water, sanitation, energy — remains under constant attack.
And yet, Ukraine stands — resilient but weary, steadfast but urgently in need of help.
Our Partnerships
Humanitarian work is strongest when we work together. Since 2022, THU has partnered with:
Toledo Rotary • Women’s Bar Association • Lutheran Church of the Master • ProMedica Foundation • SMSRxSupply.com • University of Toledo College of Law • Local Fire Departments, and many more.
These collaborations multiply aid, hope, and awareness for Ukraine.
Our Impact So FAR
Since 2022, THU has:
- Shipped nearly $500,000 in critical aid (fire gear, medical supplies, and more).
- Coordinated relocation for 67 Ukrainians (18 families) to Northwest Ohio through the federal Uniting for Ukraine initiative.
- Mobilized community support from across Ohio and beyond.
- Spoken at 75+ community events to raise awareness.
Direct Aid in Ukraine—Every Week
Through our partners Rakivska Evangelical Church in Kremenchuk and volunteer Vlad Chernyayev, THU funds weekly deliveries of food, medicine, and essentials to front-line families.
📹 Regular video updates show both the devastation and the gratitude—proof that your donations reach those who need them most.
From Surplus to Survival
Launched in 2024, this initiative provides critical aid while reducing waste. By repurposing U.S. surplus and decommissioned items, we supply Ukraine with resources that would otherwise be discarded.
To date, THU has shipped:
• $300,000+ in medical supplies (expired in the U.S. but usable in Ukraine).
• Firefighting gear, tools, and protective equipment no longer serviceable in the U.S. but life-saving in Ukraine.
• Building materials to help rebuild destroyed homes and hospitals.
👉 If your business has surplus supplies, contact us at info@4ua.org. What you no longer need could save lives in Ukraine.
Educational & Awareness Campaigns
THU is committed to making sure the world does not forget Ukraine’s fight for freedom. Our volunteers work 365 days a year—locally and in Ukraine—leading educational programs, awareness talks, and community campaigns on compassion and resilience.
OUR TEAM
Alona Matchenko
FOUNDER / LAW GRADUATE / THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
Alona earned a bachelors in education and two master's degrees in Ukraine and was a primary school teacher in Kyiv for six years before coming to the United States in 2016, fleeing the revolution in Ukraine. Alona's family including Mother, step-father and two minor siblings remains in limbo in Poland. Alona and her husband live and own a residential care business in Perrysburg.
Hope Luther
CO-FOUNDER / LAW GRADUATE / THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
Hope is a third generation native of northwest Ohio and was inspired to join Toledo Helps Ukraine out of a desire to help, to larger Toledo community. Hope appreciates all this area has to offer seeks to engender a love of our community in those around her. Hope lives with her family in Sylvania.
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