A lakeshore man plans to return to Ukraine next week to aid refugees, freedom fighters and doctors. Barry Nelson of Manitowoc took on the role of a “War Uber” driver on his own initiative. Nelson is not of Ukrainian ancestry and has no connections with the country. His initial plan was to rent a van in Poland and help bring those fleeing their homes in Ukraine. Nelson says he found his efforts confounded by border guards. They told him rental vehicles could not cross the border, which was contrary to what the rental agency said. So, Nelson tried a smaller effort after speaking with a Ukraine woman who spoke English.
Nelson also worked through a distribution center in Poland to bring relief supplies, including winter clothing and other goods to help those fighting against Russian invaders.
Nelson’s work with distribution centers to brought generators to clinics and hospitals without electricity.
