Amid war, over 61,000 Airbnb bookings in Ukraine; here's why
What's the story
Some people have found a new way to help war-hit Ukraine, they are booking Airbnb spaces not to stay but to aid the residents. On March 2 and March 3, guests from around the world booked over 61,000 nights in Ukraine to help the Ukrainian people, CNN reported. Airbnb, an online marketplace for homestays, has already provided free homes to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Russian forces have bombarded and besieged Ukrainian cities, cutting off the residents from all services. The campaign will provide financial assistance to some of these people. Notably, Airbnb pays the host after the check-in date, even if the guests do not check in. Hence, the campaign is urging people to book Airbnb spaces in the country quickly so that the hosts get paid soon.
Social Media
Social media campaigns triggers a movement
The novel idea was part of a social media effort to raise funds for beleaguered Ukrainians. The citizens are in need of financial support while Russian armies assault their country and cut off services. The advocates are urging people to book rooms as close to a check-in date as feasible in order for hosts to get payments as early as possible.
Fundraising
Bookings from US, UK and Canada generated $1.9 million
The fundraising campaign gained traction after Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky retweeted a user's message, Wall Street Journal reported. As per the report, guests from the United States booked 34,000 nights, those from the United Kingdom booked 8,000 nights, and Canadians booked roughly 3,000 nights, generating $1.9 million. The firm stated that it has waived all of its booking commission.
Messages
Prayers, love pour in for Ukrainian hosts
"I hope that you, and your lovely apartment, are safe and that this horrible war is over ... and Ukraine is safe...I will come and see you one day, please count on it, and will stay with you when we visit," a message attached to a booking read. "God bless you and God be with you, your city, your country," it adds.
Twitter Post
Such a cool idea from the community: Airbnb CEO
In 48 hours, 61,406 nights have been booked in Ukraine. That's $1.9M going to Hosts in need
— Brian Chesky 🇺🇦 (@bchesky) March 4, 2022
Such a cool idea from our community. Thank you https://t.co/MEitgKB5Eo
Twitter Post
Celebrities also joined the camapaign
We booked some nights in Kharkiv on AirBnB to try to send some tangible, immediate assistance. I wrote the hosts a message and received this back. Only sharing in case you’re not sure if it’s a helpful thing to do. pic.twitter.com/yGzRZVFflk
— Kirsty Webeck (@KirstyWebeck) March 4, 2022