Druzhkivka 🇺🇦 & Ridgefield 🇺🇸
From Quiet Community to Frontline Courage -
Druzhkivka and Ridgefield: A Bond Forged in Hope
Druzhkivka is a resilient city in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, just over 10 miles from the front line. Once a peaceful community known for its industry, schools, and vibrant cultural life, Druzhkivka was home to more than 50,000 residents before the war. Much like Ridgefield, it was a place where families thrived and neighbors supported one another.In May 2023, the towns of Ridgefield and Druzhkivka formally joined together in a sister city partnership—an act of solidarity that reaches far beyond words.
Water Filtration Systems for civilians to be able to have a sustainable and reliable source of clean water.
“The Sistership program serves as an extra bond between our two cities,” said Ross Voytovych of Ridgefield Responds. “It helps us better understand Druzhkivka’s needs and address them. We hope to be closely in touch, not just now, but in the future as well. We are delighted to be able to make a difference! The people of Druzhkivka have shown extraordinary courage, and Ridgefield is proud to stand beside them.”
DIRECT AID TO Druzhkivka, UKRAINE
In collaboration with Ukraine Aid International, Ridgefield has committed to supporting Druzhkivka in meaningful, targeted ways—from providing shelter and food to restoring education for displaced children.
Donations are tax deductible and 100% of your donation will go towards the humanitarian assistance you wish to support.
“What makes this partnership unique is the direct connection,” said Marshall Mayer, Executive Director of Ukraine Aid International. “We’re able to meet real needs in real time, thanks to Ridgefield’s generosity and unwavering commitment. It’s not about charity—it’s about solidarity.”
Follow the Druzhkivka Mission Log to stay updated on the impact of your donation. Please consider sharing the impact of our work with your network, together we are helping Ukraine endure.
“Ridgefield Responds, UAI’s partner in Ridgefield, has been collecting in-kind donations to send to Druzhkivka. So far, they’ve sent four shipping containers filled with medical equipment, generators, tools, medical supplies, tires, firefighter equipment, and other vital humanitarian supplies. Because together, we’re helping Ukraine endure, one town at a time.”
In keeping with our commitment to transparency and impact, Ukraine Aid International works directly with local leaders in Druzhkivka to ensure every donation is used effectively.
100% of your contribution goes directly to humanitarian relief. All donations are tax deductible.
LATEST UPDATES
- Bakhmut, Bohorodychne, Donestk Oblast, Druzhkivka, Druzhkivka - Ridgefield, Friendship City, Humanitarian Aid, Kherson, Kherson Oblast, Kostiantynivka - Fairfield, Kostyantynivka, Kramatorsk, Kramatorsk - Stamford, Lyman, Lyman - Westport, News, Other, Siversk, Siversk - Weston, Soledar, Sumy, Sumy - Sacramento, Sviatohirsk, Sviatohirsk - Easton - Ashland
December 2023
Kostiantynivka requested in kind aid of fire fighter gear. The UAI team coordinated the collection of this gear from across our sister cities. Thanks to our network of volunteers we were able to pack these materials up for shipment and they are now preparing their long journey to Ukraine. The equipment is now being shipped along with 2 ambulances to be delivered to Iziyum.
December 2023
In an effort to reduce rubble and clear streets the civilian leadership of Kostiantynivka requested a crane. This vital machinery would ensure accessible roads for evacuation and delivery of additional aid. A crane in the region also allows communities to manage damage to buildings, ensuring disrepair is not the cause of more disaster as air raids and bombings continue in the region.
September, 2023
UAI helped deliver 2 tonnes of food to our friends who run a civilian food bank in UAI’s sister city, Kramatorsk.
Varge started the charity in 2014 after the annexation of Crimea. He talked with UAI Volunteer Alison about the day-to-day struggles of Kramatorsk civilians who navigate unemployment and a steep increase in the cost of living.
Interested in getting involved?
Join the Friendship City Committee
Each Friendship City has a group of volunteers who organize events, fundraisers, and community engagement to keep morale high and our neighbors involved in the work. We are always grateful to have new volunteers join these efforts.
