Retailer Rimi to distribute aid packages to war refugees arriving from Ukraine

TALLINN – Over the course of a few days, employees of the retail chin Rimi have packed 250 aid packages for war refugees arriving from Ukraine.

The aid package includes toiletries and food items such as bananas, sandwiches and yoghurt. There are also packages for families containing baby food and diapers, in case the need arrives among those arriving from Ukraine.

The packages were assembled in Rimi's stores over the weekend and the first aid packages were handed over. Going forward, the aid packages will be distributed as needed.

"It is very logical and necessary to help people who have had to leave their homes because of war and want to protect their families. We put everything that could be needed as a matter of priority in the aid packages and will donate the packages to the Estonian state," Vaido Padumae, CEO of Rimi Estonia, said. 

"Fleeing a war is a very scary experience -- our task is to receive Ukrainians arriving in Estonia with respect for their dignity, to provide accommodation, food and a sense of security. I am glad that Rimi reached out and that 250 Ukrainians, regardless of their time of arrival, will have an aid package waiting with basic food and hygiene items," Tea Varrak, head of continuity of the social field at the Ministry of Social Affairs, said.