Rockford Rallies to Support Sister City Brovary in Ukraine

The City of Rockford, Illinois, has launched a heartfelt initiative to raise funds for its sister city of Brovary in Ukraine. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, the YMCA of Rock River Valley, and the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, aims to provide much-needed support and respite for the children of Brovary who have endured the trauma of losing their fathers in the ongoing conflict.

Offering Solace and Healing to Ukraine's Youngest Victims

Welcoming Brovary's Children to Rockford

In August, Rockford will host ten children and two chaperones from Brovary, providing them with a much-needed opportunity to experience healing and respite. These children have faced the unimaginable, having lost their fathers either through death or disappearance as they defended their homeland. The sister city arrangement between Rockford and Brovary, which began in 1995 when a soccer team from Kyiv visited Rockford, has now evolved into a profound act of solidarity and support during these challenging times.

Building Connections and Providing Aid

Over the years, the relationship between Rockford and Brovary has deepened. In 2022, Rockford donated tens of thousands of dollars' worth of medical supplies and packaged and distributed meals directly to people in need in Brovary. Additionally, a group of children and chaperones from Brovary visited Rockford, where the community embraced them and provided a fantastic experience. "During 2022, we hosted teens from Brovary and the Rockford community really stepped up and helped us provide a fantastic trip for these children," says Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. "I'm hoping we can do that again. These children need rest and solace from the trauma they are facing at home."

Strengthening the Sister City Bond

The sister city arrangement between Rockford and Brovary dates back to 1995, when a soccer team from Kyiv visited Rockford. As a gesture of goodwill, a group from Rockford traveled to Brovary and built the first of two playgrounds for the city's children. This initial act of kindness laid the foundation for a lasting partnership that has now become a lifeline for the people of Brovary during their time of need.

Rallying the Community for a Worthy Cause

The current fundraising initiative led by the City of Rockford, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, the YMCA of Rock River Valley, and the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is a testament to the community's compassion and commitment to supporting their sister city. By coming together to raise funds, the people of Rockford are demonstrating their solidarity with the people of Brovary and their unwavering desire to provide aid and comfort during these challenging times.