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Sonoma, CA – May 23, 2024 – The City of Sonoma will host a press conference on June 6, 2024, to honor the donation of an ambulance filled with vital medical supplies to Ukraine. This humanitarian effort supports Sonoma’s Sister City, Kaniv, and the broader Ukrainian community amidst the ongoing war with Russia.
The press conference will take place at Sonoma City Hall at 4:00 p.m., featuring distinguished speakers including His Excellency Dmytro Kushneruk, Consul General of Ukraine, regional elected officials, and others connected to the ambulance donation.
The ambulance donation was initiated following a request from Consul General Kushneruk, who expressed an urgent need for emergency vehicles and medical supplies in Ukraine as they entered a third year of war. Inspired by this call to action, the Sonoma Sister Cities Association (SSCA) reached out to Sonoma Valley Fire District Chief Steve Akre. The City of Sonoma responded, offering a soon-to-be-retired ambulance from the City of Sonoma’s fleet. This ambulance will be transported to Ukraine with the help of the volunteer organization “US Ambulances for Ukraine” in partnership with the nonprofit organization, “UA Resistance”.
Kaeti Bailie, Chair of the Kaniv Sister City Committee, spearheaded a fundraising campaign to cover the transportation costs and to procure additional medical supplies for the ambulance. The campaign, hosted on Give Butter, aims to raise $20,000.
The press conference will also celebrate the collaborative spirit of the Sonoma community, highlight our solidarity with the Ukrainian fight for sovereignty and freedom, and set a precedent for other California cities to consider similar donations.
Event Details:
- Date: June 6, 2024
- Time: 4:00 p.m.
- Location: Sonoma City Hall, No. 1, The Plaza, Sonoma, CA
Mayor John Gurney of Sonoma remarked, “The donation of this ambulance underscores our deep commitment to our sister city of Kaniv and the entire Ukrainian nation. Sonoma stands in solidarity with Ukraine, and we are proud to contribute to their humanitarian needs during this challenging time.”
Consul General Dmytro Kushneruk stated, “In the heart of the full-scale war, an ambulance is not just a vehicle—it is a lifeline, a guardian of life, and a promise of survival. We are grateful to the City of Sonoma and all members of the Sonoma community for the donation. I hope other cities in California will join this wonderful initiative.”
“Sonoma’s commitment to our sister city of Kaniv is unwavering,” said SSCA President Stephanie Fine. “This ambulance donation is a testament to the solidarity and support our community extends to the people of Ukraine in their time of need.”
The press and public are invited to attend the press conference. For further information and to RSVP, please contact Sarah Tracy, Public Information Officer, at 707-933-2215 or email stracy@sonomacity.org.
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About Sonoma Sister Cities Association (SSCA):
The SSCA fosters global cooperation and cultural exchange between Sonoma and its sister cities. Established in 1987, the partnership with Kaniv, Ukraine, has been a pillar of friendship and mutual support, promoting educational, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives.
For more details on the ambulance donation and how to contribute, visit the SSCA website at sscasonoma.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sarah Tracy, Public Information Officer
stracy@sonomacity.org
707-933-2215