A CHILDREN’S charity which helps vulnerable youngsters to find their voice by using rescue animals has collected four boxes full of items to be delivered to Ukraine for animals caught up in the war.

Lesley Winton, of Tranent, set up Fostering Compassion nine years ago.

The Ormiston-based charity seeks to end animal cruelty and help children learn to empathise with animals, resulting in improved behaviour and increased confidence and self-value.

The 57-year-old and her team launched a collection for pet goods to support the efforts in Ukraine to help animals caught up in the conflict.

She appealed for pet items including food, toys, bowls, coats and leads to be distributed into ‘boxes of comfort’.

A lorry heading to Odessa set off from Scotland last Monday, with four boxes contributed by the charity onboard.

Ahead of the departure, Lesley said: “We are incredibly proud that four boxes of comfort from the Fostering Compassion children went to Ukraine to be distributed to help all the animals in need in Odessa.

“They went with a huge amount of donations from wonderful supporters of our work. We cannot thank you all enough.

“Our lovely Ukrainian friend Zhenya picked them up and they will be on the lorry to Odessa early this week.

“I am bursting with pride.”

She wanted to thank everyone who contributed, including: Fat Face at Fort Kinnaird, the Fostering Compassion children, Jacqui du Rocher, Holly Kilday, the Blair family, Deirdre McGhie, Barbara Winton, Sam Borthwick, Wool Needed for Rescues, Lezlie Fergus in memory of Rocky, Kirsty du Rocher and Sheila Dales.