Advanced Wireless donates wi-fi access points to Friends of Be an Angel for schools in Irpin, Ukraine
A wireless technology firm based in Franklin is contributing more than 820 Wi-Fi access points to the city of Irpin, Ukraine, to aid the local education infrastructure there. Advanced Wireless, Inc. is making this donation to Milwaukee’s sister city, which has seen significant damage to its educational facilities, with 20 schools affected by the ongoing conflict with Russia. These Wi-Fi access points will be set up across the school district, extending connectivity to bomb shelters, hospitals, and government buildings.
To facilitate the shipment of these Wi-Fi access points to Irpin, Friends of Be An Angel, a charitable organization based in Milwaukee that focuses on humanitarian aid to Ukraine, is stepping in to manage logistics. Shipments are expected to begin within two weeks, as stated by Anya Verkhovskaya, Board Chair of Friends of Be an Angel, which has a history of delivering significant aid to Ukraine, including medical supplies and food, amounting to $63 million.
Verkhovskaya praised the partnership with Advanced Wireless and highlighted the impact that businesses can have in providing crucial support during times of need. Morin also emphasized the importance of community support from businesses in the area. Milwaukee’s Mayor, Cavalier Johnson, acknowledged the contributions and stressed the importance of continuing to express solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
“We are very proud to work with Advanced Wireless,” Verkhovskaya said. “Darryl’s leadership showed us today that one business can make the difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Anya Verkhovskaya
Advanced Wireless’ leadership showed us today that one business can make the difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Donation part of ongoing grant program at Advanced Wireless
This donation is part of a larger initiative by Advanced Wireless to support educational technology, with the company having already invested over $2.5 million in Southeastern Wisconsin through its wireless schools initiative grant program. Though the exact financial details of the donation to Irpin remain undisclosed, Morin described it as a significant investment.
Halyna Salapata, president of Wisconsin Ukrainians, recognized the donation as a crucial support for Ukrainian education, noting the extensive recovery and construction needs of the country. She highlighted the increased demand for internet access for education due to limited physical learning spaces.
Irpin Mayor Oleksandr Markushyn expresses his thanks
Irpin’s Mayor, Oleksandr Markushyn, expressed his gratitude for the support from Milwaukee, emphasizing the strength of the partnership between the cities during challenging times. He noted the displacement of approximately 25,000 people in Irpin, the highest in the Kyiv region, and reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to fighting for democracy and freedom.
Consul of the Consulate General of Ukraine in Chicago Koledov Serhiy, who also spoke virtually, said this effort shows “how sistership relations can be used effectively.”
“Your help is invaluable,” he said.