The internet has found a new use for it.
Scores of people on social media say they are using a unique method to financially support Ukrainians in need: booking, but not staying in, local Airbnbs. The idea began to pick up steam early Thursday, as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continued, with many people sharing what they say are pictures of their communication with Ukrainian Airbnb hosts online.
It is possible to get money directly into the hands of Kiev residents by booking a Kiev AirBn for a week.
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We contacted the company to see if it was seeing an increase in this type of activity, and if it was waiving host and guest fees within Ukraine.
The company confirmed via email that it is waiving guest and host fees on Ukrainian bookings, but did not reply to our other questions. A spokesman pointed us to a Feb. 28 post in which Airbnb said it would offer free housing for up to 100,000 refugees.
We appreciate the generosity of our community during this time of crisis, according to the statement provided by the spokesman.
The lack of fees was highlighted by several users.
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The idea of average people giving money to Ukrainians has been going on for a long time. This latest approach, which uses the established host and payments network, demonstrates how technology can be used in times of need.
There are more traditional ways to help Ukrainians.
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It helps donors avoid the many scam artists who try to take advantage of their generosity. This approach is not without risk because the platform itself is synonymous with scam and fake listings.
Even so, as the war in Ukraine shows no signs of abating, people have made clear that they are willing to bear any financial risk associated with booking Ukrainian Airbnbs, especially if it helps actual Ukrainians who are stuck dealing with the different.
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