Aberdeen and Hibs unite for Ukraine as clubs launch charity drive to support Dnipro Kids Appeal

Aberdeen and Hibs will unite this weekend in a push to raise funds for children in war-torn Ukraine.

The Premiership clubs have backed the Dnipro Kids Appeal as Russia's invasion continues to decimate the country.

Founded in 2005 by Hibs fans who collected funds for an orphanage in Dnipropetrovsk, the same orphanage was visited by Dons supporters two year later.

The appeal now cares for six orphanages across the country.

Dnipro Kids chairman, Steve Carr, has helped transport kids to safety in Poland with a view to then bringing them to Scotland.

The clubs have asked fans to donate via text to help support the charity ahead of Saturday's clash at Pittodrie.

An Aberdeen statement said: "This Saturday Aberdeen FC and Hibernian FC will put sporting rivalries aside off the pitch to unite in support of the Dnipro Kids Appeal.

"Dnipro Kids was established in 2005 by visiting Hibs fans who started a charitable collection for a local orphanage in Dnipropetrovsk. The Dons subsequently visited the city in 2007 and ahead of the European tie a number of supporters and Club staff visited the same orphanage to provide their assistance to the charity.

"Since then, AFC Community Trust, alongside Aberdeen FC, Hibernian FC and other football supporters from Scotland, have continued to provide football kits, presents and food to distribute to the children and they continue to support the Dnipro Kids charity with ongoing donations.

"With the ongoing humanitarian disaster unfolding in Ukraine, Dnipro Kids Chairman, Steve Carr, has travelled to the war-torn country to help get the children to safety and they are now in Poland with the hope of them ultimately travelling to Scotland.

"The match this Saturday had been designated Aberdeen