On June 6th, 2024, the City of Sonoma held a press conference at Sonoma City Hall to honor the donation of an ambulance filled with vital medical supplies to Ukraine. This donation, a gesture of solidarity with Sonoma’s Sister City, Kaniv, and the broader Ukrainian community, was made possible through the collective efforts of the Sonoma Sister Cities Association, US Ambulances for Ukraine, Sonoma Valley Fire Department and the City of Sonoma, along with numerous community members and organizations.
The event featured speakers who underscored the significance of this humanitarian initiative including:
- John Gurney, Mayor of the City of Sonoma
- Dmytro Kushneruk, Consul General of Ukraine
- Ezrah Chaaban, Representative for Senator Bill Dodd
- David Rabbit, Chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
- Chris Manson, Founder of US Ambulances for Ukraine
- Stephanie Fine, Board President of the Sonoma Sister Cities Association
The program concluded with the presentation of gifts to Consul General Dmytro Kushneruk and Consul Oleksii Khorosh, followed by closing remarks.
The press conference was recorded by SonomaTV and can be viewed on YouTube: SonomaTV Press Conference Recording.
The City of Sonoma extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in and supported this important initiative, making the donation of the ambulance a reality. This event not only demonstrated the strength and compassion of our community but also set a powerful example of international friendship and support.