German rescues Ukrainian frontline residents – Interview
Immer noch harren in der Ukraine Alte, Kranke und Babys in Kampfgebieten nahe der Front aus. Andreas Tölke will sie mit seiner Hilfsorganisation “Be an Angel” retten. Dabei erlebt er den russischen Bombenterror hautnah.
Doctor of Hearts Honored for his Humanitarian Commitment
In Berlin, Andreas Tölke, founder of “Be an Angel e.V.” and recipient of the Federal Cross of Merit, was honored with an honorary doctorate from Arden University for his exceptional contributions to humanity. The ceremony took place at “Kreuzberger Himmel,” a restaurant Tölke founded and staffed by people with refugee backgrounds. Numerous prominent guests from his network, including Prof. Gesine Schwan and Hajo Schumacher, attended the event and praised Tölke’s dedication and its significant impact on society.
Berlin-based NGO Evacuates Refugees – TAZ.de
As Soldiers Stop the Bus, Tears of Despair Roll Down their Faces – Funke Mediengruppe
On a chilly March morning in Odessa, the Fanahei family prepares for their second flight from Ukraine to escape the war. The bus that is to take them to Munich is parked outside the main train station, while explosions and air strikes continue to shake their homeland. The situation in Ukraine is deteriorating, the Russian armed forces are putting the defenders under massive pressure and evacuation orders have been issued for villages close to the front. Aid organizations such as “Be an Angel” are trying to cope with the increasing number of requests, although donations are declining. The family hopes to find safety in Germany, while millions of Ukrainians continue to flee the war.
Interview with our Ukraine Team – TAZ.de
Nataliia Gocharova, Julia Zara, and Ekatetrina Mikheitrva work as volunteers in Odessa, supported by the Berlin-based association Be an Angel. They provide food and medicine, evacuate those in need, and ensure medical care for sick children and elderly people in Europe. They describe the harsh living conditions in Odessa, with frequent power and heating outages, and the psychological strain on the residents. Despite these challenges, they stay in Odessa to help their fellow citizens and raise donations for those in need. Art events offer a welcome break from the war’s daily realities.
Together to the Mortician – Berliner Morgenpost
Ulrike Lessig, a board member of the “Be an Angel” association and former social worker, takes care of both her elderly mother with dementia and refugees in Berlin. Despite her own physical limitations, she handles her daily life with remarkable energy and joy. After the death of her friend Raffi, she took on the responsibility of caring for Raffi’s daughter Lou, whom she refers to as her “gosling child.” Her professional experiences with terminally ill patients have deeply influenced her, fostering a desire to support others in their final moments. For her own funeral, Ulrike wishes to have food from the “Kreuzberger Himmel” restaurant, run by refugees.
Table Top Discussion with Founder Andreas Tölke – WDR 5
Border report Zaporizhia – ZDF
Queues of cars at the checkpoint to the Ukrainian-controlled district of Zaporizhia. Refugees tearfully explain how the so-called referendum is taking place on the other side.
Ukrainian Voices Of Art – Gallery Weekend Berlin
“Ukrainian Voices of Art” – a benefit exhibition of Ukrainian artists. For and by Be an Angel e.V.
“Ukrainian Voices of Art”, is a sales exhibition of current Ukrainian art and at the same time a benefit action by and for Be an Angel e.V. at the Berlin Art Week. All proceeds will benefit the artists as well as Be an Angel e.V..
With the Wheelchair into the Air-Raid Shelter – Deutsche Welle
By early April, the Republic of Moldova had taken in nearly 400,000 Ukrainian refugees, presenting a significant challenge for Europe’s poorest country. The Berlin-based association “Be an Angel,” led by Ulrike Lessig, who is herself wheelchair-bound, supports the refugees, particularly those with disabilities. These individuals often struggle to reach bomb shelters or move around their homes. “Be an Angel” organizes evacuations, medical care, and provides aid such as wheelchairs and hospital beds. Despite these efforts, basic support is lacking. Additionally, the German Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired is helping visually impaired refugees and safely bringing them to Germany.