Some 28,000 Ukrainians are now living in temporary accommodation in the Netherlands which has been organized by local councils.

In total, the authorities have come up with almost 42,000 beds so far, and are nearing the government’s target of 50,000, website Nu.nl said on Monday.

Several thousand people are also staying with friends or family, or through private initiatives. In all, 31,340 Ukrainian nationals had registered with the local authorities by Monday.

Registration is needed to qualify for schools, healthcare and a small allowance.

The first schools for Ukrainian children who fled to the Netherlands have opened their doors after a scramble to find teachers and classroom equipment. Several hundred children have started lessons in special temporary schools for newcomers, set up to cater for the refugees who began arriving last month.

Banks and local authorities have also made arrangements for Ukrainians to open accounts and transfer money from abroad.

The Dutch banking association NVB and payment services association Betaalvereniging Nederland have also set up a website with information and advice on how to use the system.

Useful information
Ukrainians in the Netherlands foundation (founded 2014)
Amsterdam city council information (English and Ukrainian)
The Hague city council information (Dutch and Ukrainian)
International Welcome Center North (English and Ukrainian)
Immigration service information (English)
Welcome to the Netherlands (www.refugeehelp.nl in English)