Twelve weeks into the Ukrainian war, a contractor for the Scottish Government contacted Landry & Kling Global Ship Solutions with an urgent request. Anticipating an influx of tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees, the government sought innovative solutions to a severe housing shortage. Within two weeks, Landry & Kling deployed two vessels to Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Landry & Kling’s mission was to fulfill the Scottish Government’s Super Sponsor Scheme—a multi-faceted program of accommodation, health care, education, language, job training, and welfare known as a Warm Scots Welcome. Over the next year and a half, more than 3,000 Ukrainians, including 800 children, would find safety, solace, and community onboard both ships.

Under the guidance of the Landry & Kling team, a strong community of care and support was fostered. Each ship provided a comprehensive range of services, including housekeeping, laundry, three healthy and culturally appropriate meals daily, medical services, recreational facilities, and 24/7 security. Onboard support services were available to address immediate and long-term needs, such as mental health counseling, employment matching, benefits, primary/secondary school placement, and safeguarding.

The team worked closely with various agencies onboard and ashore, including the Immigration and Border Force, National Health Service, various Scottish Government teams, an onboard nurse, translation services, volunteers, local charities, and religious institutions.

Living alongside displaced families, Landry & Kling’s CEO, Joyce Landry, was deeply moved by the plight of the most vulnerable onboard—the children. In response, Joyce initiated and funded enrichment programs to support the children’s well-being and provide leadership opportunities for Ukrainian adults. The company’s philanthropic commitment to the children’s programs led to the formation of Mission of Innocents and its recognition as a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

One of Mission of Innocents’ proudest accomplishments is the formation of the children’s choir, which has evolved into a popular and beloved community group. The choir has been honored to perform at Bute House for Nicola Sturgeon, the Former First Minister of Scotland, at the Scottish Parliament, the Royal Lyceum Theatre, and the Ukrainian Embassy in London.

Since its founding, Mission of Innocents has been a beacon of hope for nearly 800 displaced Ukrainian children. It continues to expand its impact on other communities of displaced people.

Landry & Kling is uniquely positioned on the frontlines of refugee accommodation operations, and continues its work around the globe, providing housing solutions in areas of need.