Hayden Panettiere has started a relief fund for those defending Ukraine. The actress shares a 7-year-old daughter with Ukrainian former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko, whose brother Vitali Klitschko, is the mayor of Kyiv.

Panettiere recently started Hoplon International, an organization that raises funding for supplies for Ukrainians. This includes medical supplies and protective gear. She launched the organization as a way to ensure aid and supplies are directly distributed to those most in need.

Her daughter is currently safe and not in Ukraine but Panettiere said she could not “continue to sit on the sidelines.”

Panettiere had a few things to say during her interview with CNN about the current state of Ukraine:

“There are no words to describe what it's been like watching the war in Ukraine unfold.

“It’s gut-wrenching knowing the people of Ukraine, people I call my friends and family are desperately trying to defend their way of life in a country that they love.

Panettiere also explained the historic meaning behind the name of her organization, saying:

“Hoplons were shields employed by the ancient Greeks. In that spirit, Hoplon International funnels support from the global community to the front lines in Ukraine, were outnumbered, outgunned, and largely civilian forces are struggling to defend their country, their way of life, and their fellow citizens,” reads the organization’s mission statement.”

Through her social media, she has asked her fans to send love and support to those in Ukraine.

“I ask for those of us who can’t be there to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and show your support for #democracy.”