Davenport, IOWA – According to the state officials, IOWA is providing 146 protective helmets and 714 ballistic vests through donations from the Department of Public Safety and 18 other law enforcement agencies.
The retired equipment is past the manufacturers’ recommended service life but still in usable condition.
Governor Kim Reynolds released the following statement:
“Ukrainian men and women have taken up arms alongside their military to protect their homeland from Putin’s unprovoked attack. 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.”
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.
Gov. Reynolds also announced that the state, along with Iowa Sister States, will work with Meals from the Heartland in West Des Moines to help address the immediate and ongoing food supply needs of Cherkasy.