Local family-owned business working to support people of Ukraine

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - One family-owned business in South Hadley has come together to support the people of Ukraine, and you may see their special creation in your neighborhood soon.

The Binczyks have personally seen and experienced what Ukrainians are going through right now. They told Western Mass News what the country means to them and their homeland of Poland.

Following an invasion of Russian forces, they told us that they needed to do something.

“We’re doing all we can from western Massachusetts to help our friends, families, loved one’s, colleagues, you know, we’re all in it together,” said Alexander Binczyk, Vice President of Sales at 413 Dumpster.

Alexander and Walter Binczyk of 413 Dumpster in South Hadley designed a custom-made truck displaying the Ukrainian flag to help fundraise and support the people of Ukraine.

“It’s great to see how passionate not just our employees are, but everyone around us,’ said Alexander. “People who we called up, suppliers, who jumped on this idea right away to help us out.”

After deciding to take action over the weekend, the dumpster was painted Monday morning and will soon join the 413 fleet.

“We have two organizations that we’re partnering with right now to do so, as well as just to spread overall awareness,” Alexander added.

Alexander’s grandfather, Walter’s father, was from Ukraine, and their family hails from Poland. Walter shared his memories of Russian troops from the 1980′s with Western Mass News.

“I served the Polish army. I was stationed next to the Russian station, next to 40,000 Russian soldiers,” Walter told us. “I worked with them. They’re very tough people.”

Current scenes from eastern Europe hit close to home.

“Mothers, fathers have to say goodbye to them, is very touching to me,” Walter said. ”I could picture myself doing it, sorry, so that’s why I’m doing it.”

He talked about how closely bonded the two countries are, sharing languages, traditions, even family members who remain there.

“I speak the language, I know the people, and I feel so sorry for them right now,” Walter told us.

As for how long the Ukrainian flag will be displayed proudly and prominently, Alexander had this to say:

“This thing is going to be in service however long it has to be. We’re not planning on taking it out, we’re not planning on changing any colors. It’s blue and yellow for a reason, and we want people to see that.”

A portion of the proceeds from this dumpster will be donated to two separate organizations, one of which has a goal of raising $20 million for the people of Ukraine, which will help with first aid and hygiene.

If you want to rent out the Ukrainian dumpster, or donate, you can do so here.

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