A challenge for Ukraine – charity winter swimming

12/02/2026
talvine meri

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February marks four years since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine, and this winter has been exceptionally difficult for Ukrainians due to intensified Russian attacks and severe weather conditions. The Estonian Refugee Council is organising a winter swimming challenge in support of Ukraine to raise awareness of the extreme conditions people are facing and to collect donations to support those affected.

The challenge runs throughout February. Everyone is invited to take a dip in cold water at a designated safe swimming spot and share their experience on social media. As part of the challenge, the Estonian Refugee Council also encourages donations to support crisis and evacuation centres in Ukraine. Read more on the event’s Facebook page.

As part of the campaign, joint swims will take place where participants will have access to a heated sauna:

  • Logi sauna, Tallinn – Thursday, 26 February, 4–8pm
  • Lennusulps, Tallinn – Saturday, 28 February, 11am–5pm

Entry to the saunas is granted with a donation to the Estonian Refugee Council, supporting evacuation and crisis centres in Ukraine.

Evacuation centres established for people fleeing the war provide comprehensive support. Currently, there are 21 evacuation centres operating across Ukraine. People can receive essential items, medical and psychological assistance, as well as legal and social support. In addition, temporary crisis centres have been set up in Kyiv and other major cities, where people can keep warm, have hot tea, access the internet and charge their devices.

However, evacuation centres, crisis centres and temporary accommodation for internally displaced people are currently facing ongoing heating and energy supply problems due to extreme sub-zero temperatures and intensified attacks. The Estonian Refugee Council is collecting donations to purchase generators, fuel and other essential supplies to ensure the centres can continue operating and that people fleeing the war receive vital support at critical moments.

Please help the people of Ukraine who face air raids and bitter cold every day – let’s keep evacuation and crisis centres warm and running.

Donate via the Estonian Refugee Council website: www.pagulasabi.ee/donate, or call 900 3803 – €15

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