A New Zealand charity has expanded its mission to support Ukraine by securing a further 16 decommissioned ambulances for use on the frontlines — its largest shipment of emergency vehicles so far.
Kiwi K.A.R.E (Kiwi Aid and Refugee Evacuation), a not-for-profit led by Tenby Powell, deployed the shipment which landed in Germany last Friday.
The ambulances were then driven from Port Bremerhaven by a team of 20 drivers to Kyiv where they will be serviced and painted in camouflage before being donated to frontline medical units, Powell said.
"The call by Ukraine for more ambulances comes in the wake of continued attacks on hospitals, medical centres and civilian infrastructure.
"We need all the help we can get and we are very grateful to the many New Zealanders who have generously supported Kiwi K.A.R.E."
The ambulances, which were not fit for purpose as part of an ambulance fleet, were considered a very high standard in Ukraine despite having more than 200,000km on the clock.
The Ukrainian government described the vehicles as being in "impeccable condition" in a letter to Powell's charity requesting more ambulances last October.
Powell said they have been used to deliver aid, transport refugees, evacuate the sick and injured, and run an outreach programme called Road-of-Life which reaches civilians who have not seen a medical professional for years, in some cases.
"Manaaki (meaning caring in te Reo) is our only ambulance dedicated to Road-of-Life and we need at least another two assets, together with qualified staff, to meet the demand."
In August last year, the charity delivered seven decommissioned ambulances filled with medical supplies to Ukraine.
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Last week's shipment, along with logistics support vehicles such as large vans, 4x4 cars and a 13 tonne truck, brings the total number of vehicles deployed by the charity to Ukraine to 30.
"The support has been overwhelming. Please keep it coming," said Powell.
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