Ukraine supply drive extended to noon Friday in Westmont

Donations can be dropped off at Mazzochi’s district office

Items are being collected for shipment to Ukraine, announced Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst).

WESTMONT – A supply collection drive for Ukraine has been extended until noon Friday at state Rep. Deanne Mazzochi’s Westmont office.

Mazzochi and her office recently connected with local Ukrainian Americans, Andriy and Diana Herha, who, together with other residents, arranged for a cargo plane to send donations to Ukrainian civilians amid the ongoing crisis.

“This all came together rapidly, and we had to act very quickly to get these supplies over to where they’re needed,” Mazzochi said in the release. “We had just 24 hours for this drive, which makes the sheer number of donations we got impressive.”

Within a day of announcing the collection drive, a plane was scheduled to fly out with supplies the following evening. Two trucks full of supplies were collected. A second plane will transport items that are donated by March 4.

Given the outpouring of support and ongoing interest in donating, the organizers were able to arrange for a second plane to leave this weekend. Mazzochi’s office at 1 S. Cass Ave. in Westmont will continue to act as a drop-off location for donations until noon March 4.

Urgently needed items include nonperishable foods, especially protein and energy bars, first aid kits and items like bandages, baby diapers, warm thermal clothes and hats. There is a special need for first aid and medical supplies. People are asked, if possible, to bring the donations in boxes, as opposed to bags. A large box will be available outside the office for donations outside of regular office hours.

Mazzochi thanked those donating and volunteering their time to help organize the donations.

“It is heartwarming to see our community rallying to support innocent people and children that are being severely impacted by a war neither they nor their government asked for or started,” she said. “I’ve seen time and again our people step up for those in need right here in our community and, now, abroad.”