A WOMAN is making a 3,000-mile journey to her home town to help children fleeing war-torn Ukraine.

Claudia Groze is doing her bit to help orphans fleeing the Russian invasion by taking a "truck-load" of vital items to Prahova in Romania.

The 38-year-old is pleading for more donations in a bid to help as many children as she can.

READ MORE: Ukrainian refugees welcomed to Southampton with open arms

Claudia, from Stubbington, moved to the UK to complete a degree in architecture.

She now works at Global Ecommerce Experts in Southampton along with a team of dedicated colleagues.

In a bid to help those fleeing the conflict, Claudia is making a 3,286-mile round trip to her hometown along with a lorry full of goods, donated by friends, family, colleagues and strangers, to donate to refugees.

READ MORE: £10,000 fundraising target for Ukraine reached via week of live music

Claudia has been speaking with people in Romania and taking items such as food, medication, water, cleaning products, clothing and more to help more than 400 orphans and estranged children from Odessa.

She said: "I was always concerned with the wellbeing of others, always trying to help anyone in need.

"And I think that if I manage to make a difference for one life, everything is worth it.

"It made sense for me to go back to my hometown to help out there as it is so upsetting to see people who have fled their homes, especially children.

READ MORE: We are so glad to be here: Ukrainian mum and son settle into Hampshire life

"It’s important that they get the help that they need, and it is down to people like me to do that, as I am fortunate enough to do so."

Claudia has hired someone to drive a lorry to Romania, meanwhile, she will fly across and oversee the distribution, ensuring that all of the items get to the people that need them most.

She is still seeking donations including food, nappies, medication, hygiene equipment, children’s toys, games and anything else that children can use.

To donate, call Claudia on 07402452452.

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