A THEATRE is joining in with the support for the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

The Empire Theatre, in Halstead, is beginning to host films as part of its fundraising appeal to help the war-torn eastern European country.

Communities from across Essex have already come together to raise money, supplies and other support for the people of Ukraine, to help those attempting to seek refuge from the Russian invasion.

At the Empire, bosses have launched an appeal where funds raised from some popular films will go towards the crisis.

The first film is Encanto, the latest film released by Disney.

It is at the Empire this Saturday at 11am and admission is £3.

There will also be collection buckets on site for any further contributions people want to make.

All money raised through the entry fee and the bucket collections will be given to the Ukraine appeal.

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The theatre is working with the Communication Workers Union at Royal Mail to support the MAD-Aid organisation who are directly involved with aid support to Ukraine.

MAD-Aid has been running a fundraiser since the early days of the invasion, providing funds and supplies to the country.

They have offered residential places for Ukrainian families and supported 2,000 refugees, raising over £4,500 to help the cause.

Victoria Dunford founded the MAD-Aid charity ten years ago.

She said: “We have already built a disabled centre and a care home in Moldova.

“We have also managed to send some beds for refugees, and we have hosted many refugees since day one of the war.

“After sending out a message to the public we managed to pull together volunteers and the community to help.

“We have sent two shipments, and have two more going this week, maybe three, that we will be delivering to refugee centres.

“The response has been overwhelming and inspiring, everybody has pulled together, and our volunteers have been amazing.”