A Locals Efforts To Help Ukraine - Raising Funds For Jamming Equipment

FLEISCHMANNS - Halcott local Michael DiBenedetto has traveled to Ukraine three times, assisting with various tasks as the Russian army pushes its borders. He gave a presentation on his time there at the Skene Memorial Library on Sept. 20.

Space was tight as roughly 40 individuals squeezed into the library to listen to DiBenedetto describe the condition of Ukraine. Although many buildings close to the border were in dire condition and rubble, people are still living there. Sometimes, he said, there were people living in the basement of damaged structures.

DiBenedetto spent the majority of his time delivering food and supplies to those living in areas close to Russian-occupied territories. He noted the villagers' resilience, organization, and strong sense of community. Each community visited had a leader who would organize a time and a central location for supplies to be delivered. During one such delivery, DiBenedetto thanked God for the delay in reaching the village, as the area they were to meet had been blown up just before they arrived, and the residents had not yet gathered.

In wrapping up, DiBenedetto noted that drones are the most widely used military equipment. He called for visitors to donate in support of purchasing jamming equipment, which will neutralize the frequencies of Russian drones, limiting their targeting abilities. Once enough funds are raised, DiBenedetto plans to purchase the equipment for a fellow volunteer still assisting in Ukraine.

DiBenedetto has previously been successful in raising funds to purchase three vehicles now used to deliver supplies in Ukraine. One such vehicle is used as a mobile medical unit, which is set to receive the jamming equipment if purchased.

To donate, visit donate.volunteersforukraine.org/b/00gdTO87n3v99Mc4gk

Send a check made out to Michael DiBennedetto, indicating it's for a donation, and send it to 85 Hubbard Rd, Halcott Center, NY 12430, or email DiBennedetto at vlywaterman@gmail.com.