Erlangen helps Brovary

In November, the mayor of Erlangen's Ukrainian solidarity partner city Brovary, Igor Sapozhko, contacted the city of Erlangen with a request for help. This is because the increasing Russian attacks on critical infrastructure in the Kyiv region are repeatedly leading to power cuts and, as a result, to interruptions in the water and heating supply. Especially in the face of winter temperatures in the double-digit minus degrees, quick action is essential for vital emergency repairs.

A strong sign of solidarity

Erlangen stands by Brovary's side: numerous Erlangen residents responded to the city's appeal for donations. Within just one month, donations totaled over 10,000 euros. Lord Mayor Florian Janik thanked all donors for their great solidarity and willingness to help: "With their support, the people of Erlangen are not only sending urgently needed financial aid, but also a strong sign of solidarity and hope to the residents of Brovary."

Considerable damage

The town of around 100,000 inhabitants is located not far from the capital Kyiv and has been particularly hard hit by the attacks. The city's mayor and press office recently received an update on the situation: Russian shelling had already caused considerable damage to residential buildings, garages, vehicles and an elementary school at the end of November. Three people were injured and another person had to be treated in hospital.

Following another massive attack at the end of December, there were repeated power cuts in Brovary. Several so-called "meeting points of invincibility" were set up in the town. Residents can stay there, charge mobile devices, drink tea and warm up. Generators also supply critical infrastructure such as pump rooms, schools and stores with electricity.

Donation account set up

As a result of another attack, a fire broke out in a private house on January 9. Three adults and a five-year-old child had to be rescued from the basement. All those affected were taken to hospital with smoke inhalation, and another man received medical treatment on site. Many households in Brovary currently only have a few hours of electricity per day. The donations that have been collected and are still needed are urgently required to restore the power, water and heating supply on a makeshift basis and stabilize it in the long term.

Donations can still be transferred to the account of the city of Erlangen: IBAN DE46 7635 0000 0060 1284 03 (Stadt- und Kreissparkasse Erlangen Höchstadt Herzogenaurach). Purpose: Brovary.

Photo: City of Brovary