Two years since the war in Ukraine began, South Cambridgeshire District Council is reflecting on the support offered to Ukrainian guests.
Grants totalling more than £13,000 have been awarded for activities to help guests settle into the district, while more than £102,000 has been given to support English tuition.
The funding is part of a wider £500,000 package of support provided by the council since the Homes for Ukraine scheme began, including initiatives to help guests find independent accommodation, a furniture package scheme and a recently-launched landlord incentive scheme.
The council has awarded 43 activities grants since the scheme began, supporting a wide range of events.
These include art therapy workshops for children and adults, women's club meetings, parties for traumatised children to find new friends, trips to Woburn Safari Park, a candle-making workshop, a children's colouring competition, flower-making workshops to make traditional Ukrainian flower emblems, a seaside coach trip, a ceilidh, and group discussion and games for teenagers.
Funding for the activities comes from a government tariff received for every guest who arrives in the area.
Cllr Bill Handley, the council's lead cabinet member for communities, said: "Since the Ukraine war began in February 2022 the council and the local community has gone above and beyond to support guests.
"The small grants scheme is a great example of how we have supported Ukraine guests to help families integrate. It may be materials for an art class or books for English classes.
"It can be hosting a gathering, emotional support, learning to cook together, or taking a group of Ukrainian guests on a trip to see the sights.
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"The important thing is that they have been welcomed and supported."
South Cambs has welcomed more than 850 Ukrainians since the scheme began.
Grants can be claimed by community groups, providing the idea has a range beyond their own Ukrainian guest.
Up to £300 can be awarded for each activity, covering the cost of venue hire, equipment, transport, instructor time and refreshments.
To apply email Ukraine.grants@scambs.gov.uk.
For advice on applying for funding bids contact the Centre for Voluntary Service on 01223 464 696 or by emailing enquiries@cambridgecvs.org.uk.
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