A Friendship City
As of January 2023, Dnipro, Ukraine is officially a Grand Rapids Sister Cities International Friendship City. Click the image below to read the official proclamation and learn more about this partnership.
Community Support
The Ukrainian community of Grand Rapids encompasses ~ 5,000 Ukrainians in West Michigan and is in the process of creating a non-profit to assist refugees that have been displaced because of the war as well as develop and promote Ukrainian culture and heritage in Michigan.
Commercial, Financial, & Philanthropic:
- ½ Ton of Medical Supplies Donated out of West Michigan to Dnipro
- 24,000 pairs of winter socks from Wolverine World Wide
- $100k+ Donated towards lifesaving efforts in Dnipro
- Willingness from businesses and the local Ukrainian Community to underwrite the startup costs of the Sister City Relationship
Timeline
Mayoral Conference
Mayors Bliss and Filatov hold a video conference.
Dnipro, Ukraine Becomes a Friendship City
GRSCI established Dnipro, Ukraine as a Friendship city along with a committee of dedicated individuals. Private funding of the Dnipro Committee thru 2023-2024 has been committed.
Day of Solidarity with Ukraine
Mayor Bliss proclaimed the 24th of February as a Day of Solidarity with Ukraine.