(Des Moines, IA) -- Dozens of Iowa law enforcement agencies are donating helmets and protective vests to Ukraine.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has announced the state is providing 146 protective helmets and 714 ballistic vests to Ukraine through donations from the Department of Public Safety and 18 other law enforcement agencies.
The state of Nebraska contributed additional helmets and vests to send with Iowa’s donation.
“Ukrainian men and women have taken up arms alongside their military to protect their homeland from Putin’s unprovoked attack,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Iowa has a special connection to Ukraine through our sister state relationship with Cherkasy. Today’s donation fulfills an urgent need in Cherkasy and represents an incredible team effort from the entire state. I’m proud that Iowa is doing what we can to help.”
“Ukrainians have bravely withstood Russia’s unprovoked invasion for more than a month,” said Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts. “As they’ve come under attack, the Ukrainian people have shown spirited resistance that has won the respect of the free world. As they defend their homeland, Ukrainians have an immense need for protective gear. Agencies large and small from across Nebraska have stepped up to help meet this need. I’m grateful for Nebraskans’ generosity in donating these critical supplies.”
The Governor’s office worked with the Ukrainian Consulate in Chicago to identify an opportunity with all appropriate federal licensing for delivery to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
Reynolds is also announcing that the local non-profit "Meals from The Heartland" plans to package meal for people in Ukraine in the coming weeks.
Reynolds is suggesting those who wish to contribute toward the effort Visit IowaSisterStates.org for more information.
Iowa has a sister state relationship with Cherkasy, a province located in central Ukraine. The state has ended a sister state relationship with Stavrapol Krai, Russia.