Bermuda has contributed more than half a million dollars to an appeal for war-torn Ukraine, with the insurance firm Aon (Bermuda) pitching in with $21,150.

The Bermuda Red Cross Ukraine Appeal has taken in $543,000 since the country was invaded by Russia in February.

Aon matched the amount raised by its staff for the appeal.

Ann Spencer-Arscott, the executive director of the charity, said that contributions had poured in from schools, churches and even children donating funds in lieu of birthday gifts.

She added: “A group of ladies who put together a shopping fair in the Botanical Gardens raised $56,125 through purchase of car boots, raffles and general donations as well as matching from corporates.”

Donations went to the British Red Cross in three instalments of $95,000, $205,000 and $343,000, with a further $13,300 coming in after the last funds were sent.

The Ukraine Appeal finishes at the end of this month, with donations accepted at the charity’s Butterfield bank account, 20 006 060 663859 200, or by mail to Bermuda Red Cross, PO Box HM 772, Hamilton HM CX.