News
30 November, 2025
Caboolture for Ukraine
Caboolture resident Rob Porter, a longtime volunteer and pastor, is once again preparing to journey to Ukraine this Christmas season to deliver much-needed aid to families displaced by war and is calling on the community to help raise funds.
by Marina Gomide
Caboolture resident Rob Porter, a longtime volunteer and pastor, is once again preparing to journey to Ukraine this Christmas season to deliver much-needed aid to families displaced by war and is calling on the community to help raise funds.
With the next trip planned for December 17–29, Rob is appealing for community support to raise $60,000 to repair, or ideally replace, a vital van used to deliver essential supplies directly into war-torn areas.
One of the original vans, purchased thanks to generous local donations years ago, is now worn from countless trips to the front lines and in dire need of repair.
The upcoming aid trip also aims to bring Christmas gifts to children living as refugees.
“It’s really just about helping and making a difference, especially for the kids who’ve lost so much. At Christmas, even a small gift can mean the world to them,” Rob said.
“We want to bring some happiness to children who have been through things no child should have to experience by giving them a bit of joy and hope at Christmas.
“It is something we can do to show they’re not forgotten.”
Since the onset of conflict, Rob and his wife have made four trips to Ukraine, coordinating with the local Uzhhorod First Baptist Church (UFBC) to provide food, medical supplies, and comfort items to those affected.
“This church feeds 300 people every day and opens its doors to anyone in need, regardless of background or belief,” Rob told The Sentinel.
“It isn’t about politics or religion, it’s about helping people who have lost everything.”
Rob’s humanitarian work began after he heard a news report about an orphanage struck by bombs when the war first started.
Driven to make a difference, he used his skills as a chef and community leader to support refugees alongside the Baptist church in western Ukraine.
While donations of clothing and goods are appreciated, Rob emphasised that monetary donations have the greatest impact by allowing the organisation to directly address pressing needs and repair critical equipment.
Readers can reach out to Rob via the Facebook page UCC - Ukraine Care Collective for more information or to offer further support.
