'Unusual items' Outrage as used underwear and high heels donated to Ukraine appeal in Dublin

A Dublin estate agent has called for common sense after a horde of unsuitable items were donated to an appeal for Ukraine.

Keane Thompson, a property agent in South Dublin, launched an appeal for supplies to be sent to Ukrainian refugees this week.

It is reported two million people have left the Eastern European country in search of shelter elsewhere.

In a Facebook post, Keane Thompson attached a list of items needed, including medical supplies; toiletries; dried foods; baby supplies such as nappies, baby powder, and small toys; clothes; and bedding.

But several unwanted items have also been donated to the appeal, Virgin Media News reports.

Used underwear, worn bras, heels and cocktail dresses are among the items sent in by the public.

A spokesperson said: “We have been getting some unusual items like cocktail dresses and high heels, some dirty, soiled items as well. Obviously, we don’t want any of that sort of stuff.

“It’s their dignity as well, you want to be sending good stuff.”

The estate agents said that sandals, used underwear, and dirty clothes will not be sent out to Ukrainians in need.

They added that these items make more work for volunteers who have to sort through donations and figure out how to dispose of them.

Keane Thompson is accepting donations until Wednesday and are asking the public to consider donating more practical items instead.

It comes after it emerged that a pair of red stiletto heels were among the supplies sent to Poland from Ireland this week.

Sharing a photo of the shoes, which came from Dunnes Stores, one furious Twitter user said: “This pair of shoes came today in a convoy of humanitarian aid that arrived in Poland from Ireland. Who on earth would send red stilettos to exhausted women who are fleeing for their lives?”

The Irish Emergency Logistics Team commented, urging people to donate money instead of unusable resources.

They said: “Never ever donate goods, huge waste in time and effort. Always donate money. Donate to a registered charity that is already in this area and support them that way. No need to re-invent any wheels. Good luck.

“Been advising everyone to follow these guidelines. For what it's worth. And only to send specific goods that are requested.”