Airbnb emerges as tool for direct donations to Ukrainians

Between the lines: The approach lacks some of the accountability and tax benefits of donating to a charity, but has an immediate, highly personal impact. According to NPR, such donations have already raised about $2 million.

What they're saying: Melanie Hollands, president of hedge fund Koala Capital, said she has booked a night at seven different listings.

• "The grassroots aspect of donating via Airbnb appealed to me," Hollands told Axios. "It has the spirit of constructive civil disobedience."

Our thought bubble: While the crisis has brought out the best in many, there is certainly a risk that this trend could create opportunities for fraudsters. Hopefully, Airbnb has enough systems in place to prevent that from happening.