TAMPA, Florida — City of Tampa and Hillsborough County leaders are joining together to donate medical supplies and protective equipment to Israel "as a symbol of support and solidarity," according to an announcement on Thursday.
The announcement said city and county officials began working to get supplies to Israel after receiving a "heartfelt request from Chabad South Tampa" on Wednesday.
City and county officials are working with the Office of the Consulate General of Israel in Miami to expedite the transport of supplies that will be shipped from Miami directly to Israel.
The provided equipment includes multiple boxes of crucial items such as quick clot gauze, bandages, and burn dressings, as well as protective ballistic shields.
"These donations reflect how Tampa Bay stands in steadfast solidarity with Israel after the savage acts of terrorism that have shaken so many of us to the core,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said. “Israel's fight against terrorism is our fight too."
Adding to this sentiment, County Commissioner Harry Cohen remarked, "We are all reeling from the barbaric attacks on Israel, and these supplies will be put to good use by the men and women on the front lines."
The partnership underscores a unified stand against violence and an enduring commitment to peace and human dignity.
Rabbi Mendy Dubrowski of Chabad South Tampa, pivotal in coordinating the donations, noted, “People are recognizing that the atrocities that took place this weekend are an attack on humanity at large, and they want to help."