Ohioans feeling helpless in their desire to do something for the people of Ukraine may get an opportunity thanks to a move by Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to begin preparing to welcome Ukrainian refugees into the Buckeye State.

“Like many Ohioans, I am disgusted by the senseless aggression of the Russian military and want to support Ukrainian families being driven out of their country,” DeWine said. “While we do not yet know what role Ohio will play in helping these families, I want us to be prepared when the time does come.”

March 17, at a yet-to-be-determined Northeast Ohio location, resettlement agencies, faith-based organizations, charities, and other groups will learn how to assess the needs of Ukrainians and what their role might be in helping them.

There are already hundreds of Ukrainian refugees in Ohio — mostly in Cleveland. But the need for community support is as great as it has been in years. That need will last for quite some time, and resettlement agencies note the sudden outpouring of donations has been welcomed, but long-term support will be necessary. Even organizations in communities that do not host refugees can lend support.

“ODJFS is pleased to help bring Ohio’s resettlement agencies, and other charitable organizations together to seek ways of helping displaced Ukrainians,” said ODJFS Director Matt Damschroder. “Over the next few days, we’ll be finalizing an agenda and providing more information to the key players in this effort.”

If you are seeking a way to do more, this summit may provide the chance.