IC24 is proud to support Convoy4Ukraine, a charity dedicated to providing vital assistance to communities affected by the conflict in Ukraine. The charity fundraises throughout the year to purchase rugged 4x4 vehicles, fills them with essential humanitarian aid including generators, emergency medical supplies, and other critical items, and drives them across Europe over the course of a week before handing them over to Ukrainian partners.

In line with this mission, IC24 recently donated one of our diesel vehicles to Convoys4Ukraine. The initiative began when David, one of our amazing drivers at IC24, approached the estates team about the possibility of donating one of our vehicles. The proposal was subsequently presented to the IC24 Board and approved as a meaningful way for the car to continue serving a good cause, while also supporting our long-term plan to replace our fleet with hybrid and electric vehicles.

David met with our Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Katherine Pitts, to collect the keys and prepare the vehicle for its journey to Ukraine. Katherine said,

"It is a privilege to give one of our cars a new lease of life, helping people in Ukraine in such a practical and impactful way. This donation also aligns well with one of IC24’s strategic goals of becoming a more sustainable organisation, demonstrating that even older vehicles can still make a positive difference."

The convoy, known as Convoy 10, began in Cambridge, where about half of the team reside. The weekend prior to departure was dedicated to packing trucks and vans with equipment and humanitarian aid. Generators, rescue stretchers, dried foods, and medical supplies were loaded efficiently to maximize the aid delivered.

David shared insights from his journey, saying,

"The experience was intense but deeply rewarding. Driving across multiple countries, from Belgium and Germany to Poland, and finally entering Ukraine, I was humbled to see the direct impact our vehicle and supplies had. One of the most memorable moments was sharing a hearty meal with the Mayor and our Ukrainian partners after handing over the vehicles. It is an experience I will never forget."

During the journey, the convoy covered approximately 2,200 kilometres, often driving up to 500 kilometres each day. Thanks to co-drivers and on-board mechanics, any vehicle issues were swiftly addressed, ensuring the convoy’s safe arrival. Each vehicle was handed over to Ukrainian partners for distribution along the front lines, with each one estimated to save 50 to 60 lives.

David also reflected on lighter moments during the journey, humorously comparing the culinary offerings of Germany and Poland,

"One of my best moments was a determined attempt to find out who sells the best sausages at station stops. Germany or Poland? Poland wins, hands down."

The journey was, in David’s words, almost spiritual in its impact,

"For me, the joy set before me, the sight of those happy Ukrainian faces waiting to greet us across the border, made the challenges of the journey completely worthwhile."

This donation highlights IC24’s commitment to combining sustainability and social responsibility. As we continue to modernise our fleet with hybrid and electric vehicles, we are proud that our older cars can still serve a higher purpose, supporting communities in need.