A special ceremony was held on Thursday to mark the 50th anniversary of Winnipeg's sister city relationship with Lviv, Ukraine.

To commemorate this important date, Mayor Scott Gillingham announced he would be donating $15,000 from his office budget to the UNBROKEN National Rehabilitation Center.

"We want to show the people of Ukraine that we stand with them in their defense of their nation and pursuit of peace,” said Mayor Gillingham. “This contribution reflects our commitment to strengthening our international ties with Ukraine and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need."

The centre is a place where adults and children affected by the war can receive comprehensive, qualified medical care, everything from reconstructive surgery to orthopedics and robotic prosthetics. 

Earlier this year, Mayor Gillingham announced the formation of an advisory committee to help grow the Sister City Friendship Agreement. 

“I’d like to thank the Lviv Sister City Advisory Committee (LSCAC) for their work so far and look forward to celebrating and reaffirming our Sister City Friendship Agreement with Lviv,” added Gillingham.

The Lviv Sister City Advisory Committee (LSCAC) is currently planning a celebration of the 50th anniversary of this relationship, which includes signing a new agreement to renew the sister city commitment. The celebration and signing will take place in November.