Jeep Ireland has announced that it's partnering up with the Summerhill Ukrainian Committee, a not-for-profit organisation that helps incoming refugees from Russia's invasion of Ukraine to settle in the County Meath area.
International Refugee Day
The announcement was made on International Refugee Day, and as part of the agreement, Jeep Ireland has donated a new Jeep Compass SUV to the Summerhill Ukrainian Committee, which will be used to transport refugees to medical appointments, language classes, job interviews and settlement support to help refugees integrate into Irish society.
Speaking at the announcement, John Saunders, managing director of Jeep Ireland (now a part of the sprawling Gowan Group), said: "We are thrilled to be sponsoring with the Summerhill Ukrainian Committee on this important initiative. As a family-owned business with deep roots in the community, we believe it is our responsibility to give back and support those in need, especially refugees who have fled their homes to seek safety and to make a positive impact in the lives of those around us."
Established in March 2022 by Emer Irwin, the Summerhill Ukrainian Committee has since been helping those displaced by the invasion of and war against Ukraine. Irwin says that she and the others who helped form the committee were: "All horrified by the atrocities they were seeing on their screens every day and felt they needed to act, fast."
Huge difference
"We are incredibly grateful to Gowan Auto for their generous donation of this Jeep Compass," said Emer Irwin, Chairperson of Summerhill Ukrainian Support Group. "Transportation is a major challenge for many refugees, and this vehicle will make a huge difference in our ability to help Ukrainians access the services and support they need to build a new life in Ireland."
Since its origin, the committee has accommodated many families and individuals coming into the area. A recent survey conducted by the Committee found that transport is a major concern for refugees in rural areas, who need to be able to travel to work and/or school. The Compass should at least be some small help in that regard.
Support where it's needed most
The Summerhill Ukrainian Support Committee has been recognised by national organisations such as Helping Irish Hosts as an example to other community groups on mobilising efficiently and providing support where it's needed most. International Refugee Day is observed every year on the 20th of June to raise awareness of the situation of refugees worldwide and to honour their courage, strength, and resilience.
We could probably make some fatuous comment about Jeep being a brand forged in war, now helping in peaceful ways, but instead, let's just say, because it cannot be said enough, #RefugeesWelcome.