Ways you can help victims of the Ukraine crisis

Syracuse native Mark Temnycky has always kept in touch with his Ukrainian roots. He went to a Ukrainian church and practiced Ukrainian dancing. Temnycky, who focuses on Eurasian policy at Atlantic Council, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, is now calling on others to remember their backgrounds

“Everyone who lives in the United States was an immigrant at some period in their life, right? Everyone came to this country and I think it's our responsibility to try to assist these people as we can,” Temnycky said.

As Russia continues to invade Ukraine, people around the world are looking for opportunities to support those fleeing. Temnycky said the best route is donating money to nonprofits — actual items are hard to deliver to where they need to go.

However, the state's attorney general recently released a statement warning people about charity scams and urging people to research before donating. But Temnycky pointed to New York City-based Razom as a legit organization to support.

“They have had a strong network for years, also working on providing medical, hospital assistance in helping with veterans, helping with online platforms.”

But Temnycky said there are other ways to help out.

“Keeping informed, reading the news, praying, going to church, and lighting candles for Ukrainians. Power of prayer is very important I think as well."

State and local officials have already announced their willingness to accept Ukrainian refugees, and that need is expected to grow. The United Nations posted on social media that the conflict in Ukraine is now the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.