(March 9, 2022) -- The Polis administration, through the Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS) and the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), is launching an effort to collect surplus body armor and ballistic helmets to be sent to assist the Ukrainian people. DMVA and CDPS are asking Colorado law enforcement agencies to help by donating excess equipment that could help save lives as Ukrainians battle for the survival of their sovereign nation.
The state of Colorado and will work with partners to quickly deliver the materials overseas.
“Colorado is doing everything we can to oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and supplying body armor will help save lives of brave Ukrainians fighting to protect their freedom. We have surplus body armor sitting on shelves, and we know that it can urgently be used to help stop Putin and save Ukraine,” said Governor Jared Polis.
To ensure that all materials meet safety standards, donations are only being accepted from law enforcement agencies and not from the general public.
Law enforcement agencies are asked to drop off donated surplus body armor and ballistic helmets at one of the following locations by 3 p.m., Monday, March 14.
- Denver Armory, 5275 Franklin St., Denver, 80216
- Windsor Armory, 31725 Great Western Dr., Windsor, 80550
- North Colorado Springs Armory, 9510 Voyager Pkwy., Colorado Springs, 80920
- Pueblo Armory, 1215 Acero Ave., Pueblo, 81004
- Grand Junction Armory, 482 28 Road, Grand Junction, 81501
CDPS is reaching out to local law enforcement directly with more details.
“The Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is proud to participate in the State of Colorado’s efforts to help the people of Ukraine,” said Laura Clellan, Executive Director of the DMVA.
“If even one life of a citizen soldier who is defending their country is saved, then this time-sensitive effort will have been worth it. Please consider donating your serviceable used or excess body armor and ballistic helmets," CDPS Executive Director Stan Hilkey said in urging local law enforcement to participate in the effort.
Media will not be allowed to film or take photos at the armories, however you can download photos and b-roll of surplus armor that CDPS is donating. Please contact patricia.billinger@state.co.us.
Members of the public who want to support Ukraine are encouraged to make a financial donation to any of the international non-profit organizations that are helping civilians impacted by the war. The U.S. State Department has partnered with GoFundMe.org to address the humanitarian needs of the people affected by the Russian aggression against Ukraine.