LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Two Lake County law enforcement agencies have sent surplus gear to the state of California to be distributed to Ukraine.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Homeland Security earlier this month sent a letter to all California sheriffs, police chiefs and law enforcement executives asking for the donation of ballistic helmets and vests, goggles and gloves, which the Ukrainian government requested.
Cal OES and the California National Guard are coordinating the collection of those items.
Last week, at the request of Sheriff Brian Martin, the Board of Supervisors voted to approve donating surplus equipment to the effort.
The sheriff’s office subsequently sent 20 pairs of ballistic helmets and vests for use in Ukraine, said public information officer Lauren Berlinn.
Berlinn said the equipment was scheduled to be picked up on Monday.
During the Tuesday evening Lakeport City Council meeting, Lakeport Police Chief Brad Rasmussen said this week his department donated its surplus gear to help Ukraine.
He said they had a “fair amount” of the equipment available to donate.
“Hopefully it will help save lives there,” he said.
Clearlake Police Chief Andrew White said his agency has not donated any gear to the effort.
On Tuesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the state's disaster logistics warehouse in Solano County to help pack emergency relief supplies for Ukraine.
Newsom’s office said the needed medical aid is being prepared for an upcoming shipment by Direct Relief, a California-based humanitarian aid organization that has been coordinating with the government of Ukraine and on-the-ground partners to provide support during the current crisis.
“California is united in our support for Ukraine,” said Gov. Newsom. “Throughout this crisis, the state and nonprofits, businesses, the faith community and individuals across California have stepped up in solidarity with the Ukrainian community, a heartening reminder of our common humanity. We’ll continue to support the brave people of Ukraine and reaffirm our commitment to fundamental rights and freedoms around the world.”
The supplies packaged on Tuesday include a California Medical Station that includes beds, wound and IV kits, a defibrillator, wheelchairs and other necessary supplies; 100 oxygen concentrators; and personal protective equipment to supply refugee camps.
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Sheriff’s office, police send surplus gear to Ukraine
- Elizabeth Larson
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