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Sonoma’s Ambulance Donation Completes Journey to Kaniv, Ukraine

Posted on November 7, 2024


Ukrainian citizens posing in front of a donated City of Sonoma ambulance after it arrived in Ukraine.

The City of Sonoma’s donated ambulance, stocked with essential medical supplies, has now reached Ukraine after a months-long journey, marking a meaningful milestone in Sonoma’s humanitarian support for its Sister City, Kaniv. This important delivery was made possible through the efforts of the Sonoma Sister Cities Association’s Sonoma-Kaniv Committee and the dedication of US Ambulances for Ukraine. Chris Manson, President and Founder of US Ambulances for Ukraine, confirmed the ambulance’s safe arrival this week, noting the critical resources it brings to aid those affected by the ongoing conflict. Watch a video of the ambulance arriving in Kaniv on YouTube.

This humanitarian effort began when the Consul General of Ukraine, His Excellency Dmytro Kushneruk, called on the City of Sonoma and other municipalities for emergency vehicles to support Ukraine’s medical response. The City of Sonoma answered this call by donating an ambulance set for retirement, facilitated through the efforts of Sonoma Valley Fire District and the City of Sonoma and transported to Ukraine by the nonprofit organization “US Ambulances for Ukraine,” in partnership with “UA Resistance.”

The SSCA Kaniv Committee raised funds to transport the ambulance, whose dedicated campaign drew over $30,000 in donations from the Sonoma community. This local support made the delivery possible and exemplified our community’s commitment to Kaniv and the people of Ukraine. The SSCA remains dedicated to ongoing efforts for Kaniv and continues to raise funds to provide essential resources as Ukraine faces ongoing challenges.

For those who missed the ambulance’s original send-off this past June, you can view the press conference recording here: SonomaTV Press Conference Recording.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this effort, from community donors to the many officials and volunteers who made this donation a reality. For more information or to join future support efforts, please contact the Sonoma Sister Cities Association or US Ambulances for Ukraine.

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