A well-known gay dating app says it’s been blown away by the response of its users to the plight of Ukrainians fleeing their country. It’s estimated around 1 million people have left the country amidst following Russia’s military invasion.
The social media site and app ROMEO (formerly known as Planet Romeo) was launched in Germany around 20 years ago. It has 3 million members all around the world but is particularly popular in parts of Eastern Europe and the Baltics.
Related: Warlord who led torture and murder of LGBTQ Chechens killed in Ukraine
Besides the regular profiles common to such apps, it also allows people to join from a vast number of forum groups. At the start of this week, it launched a group called ‘Shelter for Ukraine’. The group is to “connect those who can offer shelter and assistance”.
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Users immediately began to join and offer up their spare rooms or homes.
The group now boasts over 8,000 members after just four days, with hundreds of offers of help.
“We live in Prague and can offer a place to stay in our small guest room with one bed (140×200 for one person or couple),” was one typical entry.
“I can host in italy near by Pisa ( Tuscany ) one or 2 person,” said an Italian. “I live actually in countryside .I can travel and collect you up to the Italian border.”
“I offer accommodation for the one or those you urgently need. Whether male or female, up to 2 people,” said another person. “Would also offer shelter or sanctuary to those Russian soldiers who oppose the war and/or are fleeing from Putin’s government as a result.”
We’re printing more examples below but have hidden the identities of users.
A spokesperson for ROMEO told Queerty why it created the ‘Shelter for Ukraine’ group.
“When we heard the news of the invasion of Ukraine, like many, we wanted to do something to help. We are an international team, with people from all over the world. Many of us have experienced war and oppression. Connecting people is what we do, so we looked at how we could use the platform to connect people in need, with our users who are willing to help.”
Related: LGBTQ activists protest in support of Ukraine at Stonewall Inn
A few people online have pointed out that Ukrainian men aged between 18-60 are currently not allowed to leave Ukraine and are being made to stay and fight. The spokesperson acknowledged this to be the case but said the appeal was not just to help men.
“We understand that some men have made it out, but many are still there. We have some users sending pictures and updates. The offer of shelter is not only for men, it is for their parents, sisters, children.”
Indeed, one user yesterday appeared to indicate he has several people due to turn up: “Now at the weekend come to my home 2 wifes and 5 children! They can stay as long they want! Greetings from Austria!”
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been going on for the past week, with the death toll mounting. Hundreds of civilians have now been killed.
Last night, Russian forces battled to take over a Ukrainian nuclear power plant, which briefly led to a fire breaking out, stoking fears of another potential Chernobyl-like meltdown. The fire was later extinguished and Russian forces now occupy the Zaporizhzhia facility.
ROMEO is not the only geo-social network to appeal to users for the support over Ukraine. Grindr also posted a message yesterday encouraging users to support LGBTQ organizations in Ukraine.
Refugees have also found help through a network of Facebook groups, while Airbnb has also pledged short-term accommodation for 100,000 through its independent nonprofit, Airbnb.org.
Cam
I saw another suggestion, some people are going on to Air BnB and renting places in Ukraine even though you obviously can’t stay there now, as a way to help out some Ukrainians with some extra money.
mailliw110
I saw that on the morning news. They said it can be a little as $7. AirBnB said 100% will go to the hosts. No fees to AirBnB. I’ve never used there service, but I will look into this as soon as I get home from work.
The real Bruce
I saw that too, Cam. Great idea from AirBnB and Romeo gets a 5 star as well. More of the NATO countries need to get behind the idea of housing them, if they can. Putin can rot!
Canadiancub
Wow cam contributed something useful for once to a conversation instead of the tired and old comments he usually post calling people old and tired
Fname Optional Lname
Distracting from such an important topic to throw shade ….. ?? Read the room!
Jim
Rainbow Railroad
Check it out
Fahd
Romeo always has displayed a high level of corporate social responsibility; kudos!
white-queer-african
This is such heartwarming news. We can and must stand together with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, irrespective of sexual orientation. Dictators, read Putin, et al must be defeated. The same applies to führer Trump. Interesting that no comments from SamB et al? AND the story is gay related. Speak volumes.
Aaron
Now, if only our queer community extended the same energy to African, Middle Eastern, and Latin American refugees… *sips tea*
ShiningSex
It’s a good thing but it’s also scary that some might try to take advantage of Ukranians. Hopefully people are cautious before going home with someone they don’t know.
It is good to see the help that they need. F*ck Russia!!!!
Gadfeal
It’s not “Russia”, or even Russians, it’s the despot running the country like a mobster – by threat and ill-gotten wealth. We almost had another one remain in the White House, and coercive disinformation.
THAT Steve
This news has made me choke up bad. I’ll have to see what I can afford to give.
johncp56
Rainbow railroad sounds good, our LGBTQ peoples need out in Russia, we see how easily Putin kills hospitals children we are in deep doo doo people