Run 'more than sporting event' for Ukrainian women

Tetiana Nikobenko, Maryna Rahulina and Daria Kostiuchenko are among the Ukrainians running to support the work of The Salvation Army

A group of Ukrainian refugees are taking part in the Great North Run to raise awareness of the ongoing conflict and to support the charity which helped them settle.

The women sought safety in the UK three years ago and have been helped by The Salvation Army in Sunderland, where they now live.

Runner Maryna Rahulina fled Kyiv with her two young children.

Speaking about her motivation to take part in the half marathon, she said: "The Salvation Army helped me and my kids to stay in safety and to be not alone. People opened their hearts to us and now I want to do the same."

Mrs Rahulina is among hundreds of Ukrainian refugees who have found help at the charity's Sunderland Monkwearmouth branch.

She said during the darkest of times, when she feared for her family, she found positivity in the Ukrainian and British community in Sunderland.

Maryna Rahulina, with her son Makar, said she had found positivity in the Sunderland community

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, The Salvation Army has offered support to families settling in the city, including advice on jobs, English lessons and schooling.

Weekly Sunday services and regular coffee mornings have helped refugees build friendships and build a network within the city.

Tetiana Nikobenko, who visits the charity with her husband and two young sons, said: "When we arrived from Ukraine were so devastated, we were lost and we've got so much support from The Salvation Army and we want to pay back a bit."

Marharyta Marchenko did the Great North Run in 2024

Marharyta Marchenko is running the Great North Run for the second time after taking part last year.

"For us, this is more than just a sporting event," she said. "For our community, it's a chance to honour every kind-hearted soul who stood by us through difficult times. Each runner carries a story of loss, courage and dreams.

"We represent the Ukrainian community of Sunderland, who are strong, brave and resilient and The Salvation Army Monkwearmouth, who are true heroes of everyday kindness, helping people through the toughest of times."