Gov. Newsom helps package items for Ukraine, says state will welcome refugees if needed

Governor Newsom packs emergency medical supplies for shipment to Ukraine on March 15, 2022.
Governor Newsom packs emergency medical supplies for shipment to Ukraine on March 15, 2022. Photo credit Office of Gov. Gavin Newsom

SOLANO COUNTY, Calif. (KNX) — Gov. Gavin Newsom assisted in the fight to help Ukraine Tuesday, working at a disaster logistics warehouse in Solano County to pack emergency relief supplies for the war-rattled country on day 20 of the Russian invasion.

"California is united in our support for Ukraine," Newsom said in statement. "Throughout this crisis, the state and non-profits, businesses, the faith community, and individuals across California have stepped up in solidarity with the Ukrainian community, a heartening reminder of our common humanity."

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The emergency supplies were prepared for a upcoming shipment to Ukraine by Direct Relief, a California-based humanitarian aid organization that has consistently coordinated with the country throughout the crisis.

Supplied packages Tuesday included a medical station with beds, wound and IV kits, a defribrillator, wheelchairs, and other supplies, 100 oxygen concentrators, and personal protective equipment to supply refugee camps, Newsom's office said.

In a show of solidarity, Newsom wrote a note on at least one of the bins, writing "From California with love! Stay safe, more help on the way!" and signing his name.

Governor Newsom packs emergency medical supplies for shipment to Ukraine, signing one of the bins on March 15, 2022 with a message reading "From California with love!"
Governor Newsom packs emergency medical supplies for shipment to Ukraine, signing one of the bins on March 15, 2022 with a message reading "From California with love!" Photo credit Office of Gov. Gavin Newsom

Earlier this month Newsom signed an executive order directing all state agencies and departments to triple check their contractors and make sure they are complying with the economic sanctions being imposed on Russia as the war continues.

He's also "urged businesses non-governmental organizations and public entities in the state to comply with economic sanctions on Russia and take action in support of Ukraine, such as refraining from new investments and financial transactions with Russia and not transferring technology to Russian entities," his office said.

To date, California companies have donated more than $85 million to support organizations like Direct Relief that are helping Ukrainians.

Airbnb, Apple, Google, Kaiser Permanente, and Upwork are among the many businesses assisting. A full list of California companies working to support Ukraine can be found here.

"California and Ukraine share close ties and the state is home to one of the largest Ukrainian populations in the country," Newsom's office said, explaining that the state is ready should refugees need a temporary place to call home.

"As a state of inclusion and a beacon of hope for those seeking refuge, California will continue to be a welcoming place for refugees and stands ready to continue our partnership with the federal government as needed to support the resettlement of refugees fleeing Russia’s aggression in Ukraine."

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Office of Gov. Gavin Newsom