We’ve Received Another Delivery of Tins from Our Loyal Supporter – Silgan Packing Metal, Nové Mesto nad Váhom
Our long-time donor and steadfast supporter has just provided us with 10,200 tins for producing trench candles.
We began serial production of trench candles in November 2023, when we first put our technology into practice. The inspiration came during a visit to a school in Osij, Zakarpattia, where I saw children making candles in class. It struck me as difficult work, and I felt compelled to help. At the same time, I knew we had to do it differently—and I believed we could find a better way.
Why We Say “Technology”
We refer to our method as a technology, because the cornerstone of our efficiency is repeatability and minimizing effort to create a low-cost, high-utility product. But to make that possible, we need uniform tins—something impossible to achieve through ad-hoc collection.
That’s why, back in 2023, when Jirka Brauner delivered the remaining tins he had received from Silgan Packing Metal (originally donated in 2022/2023 during his own candle-making efforts with family and friends), it was a game-changer. Jirka also helped us significantly in the early days by collecting over one ton of wax, and he continues to support us to this day.
Standardization Works
We decided to do things a bit differently: everything is easily counted. One box weighs about 23 kg and contains 50 nearly identical candles. We've received very positive feedback from soldiers about the quality of our candles.
I want to express my deep gratitude once again to the management of Silgan Packing Metal in Nové Mesto nad Váhom for their tireless and repeated support. Without them, none of this would be possible.
By the Numbers
Since November 2023, we have produced 11,989 candles, weighing a total of 5,354 kg. With the arrival of these 10,200 new tins, we are ready to launch the next production series.
We are also finalizing the first batch of trench stoves, which use the candles as fuel. Our activities are expanding, and if you’d like to get involved, there’s plenty of work to do.
It’s Not a Competition – It’s a Mission
We’re aware of volunteer groups and individuals—including scouts—with far greater output numbers than ours. But those projects offer something profound: community impact, human connection, and civic values. We deeply respect that, even if our own model is different.
We are focused on performance and quality, maximizing impact with minimal resources. Both approaches matter—and they complement each other.
What Truly Matters
What’s important is the real benefit to Ukraine:
– The practical utility of these candles
– And the moral support they carry
Ukrainians know that these candles are being made by people west of their border.
They know someone, in a peaceful country, took the time and care to help ensure that peace might one day return to them too.
They know they are not alone.
And that is just as important as the warmth the candles bring.
Our other fundraisers in support of Ukraine are still ongoing – and we deeply appreciate any support.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to all our volunteers and donors.
We will endure – because we must. Because we want a better world for our children.
СЛАВА УКРАЇНІ! ГЕРОЯМ СЛАВА!
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!
