Stories of hope from Ukraine’s frontlines
World Central Kitchen’s strategy in Ukraine adapts to meet the unique needs of communities impacted by Russia’s invasion. Our regional teams act quickly to respond to emergency situations, including events like missile attacks on civilian infrastructure or the extensive flooding caused by the Kakhovka dam collapse last summer. At the same time, we regularly deliver hot meals, food kits, seed packets, and bags of fresh produce to frontline communities where access to food is cut off due to the conflict. WCK has provided more than 260 million meals in Ukraine since serving our first plates of food to families fleeing for safety over two years ago.
Some of the most pressing needs in the country are in frontline communities across the Donetsk region. Russian forces are capturing towns as they continue to advance from the east. Every day, our teams are meeting and aiding Ukrainians who are living under threat, but who still remain hopeful. Their motivations are different, but they have one thing in common—they continue to live their lives, to be active in their communities, and to help their neighbors regardless of the circumstances.
Ruslana from Nykanorivka
Before the war, Nykanorivka was a vibrant village where neighbors would often gather to cook, dance, and sing. Ruslana was part of the local club that organized these events, making life in the close-knit village fun. Now, that same club has a much different role: a hub for humanitarian aid.
There are shops, but the prices have increased exponentially because of supply difficulties. Electricity, gas, and the internet are often cut off. Almost everyone in the village has lost their job. Families fleeing occupied towns in the region arrive in Nykanorivka in search of shelter, further staining limited resources. But the village’s spirit is still strong: of the 100 families that lived in Nykanorivka before the war, only about five have left due to the mandatory evacuation of families with small children.
“We are a frontline city,” said Ruslana. “We survive here thanks to humanitarian aid and WCK’s products.” People are especially grateful for the seed packets our teams distribute. “People can grow vegetables thanks to the WCK seeds program—it really helps,” Ruslana said.
Eugenia from Sviatohirsk
Sviatohirsk became the epicenter of fierce fighting in the first months of the invasion. The city was taken by Russian forces in June 2022 and would remain under occupation until its liberation three months later. Eugenia, a resident of Sviatohirsk, would look out her window and see Russian soldiers in the streets. She and many of her neighbors tried not to leave their houses.
Before the war, Eugenia worked as a nurse in a hospital for 20 years. Now, she helps WCK’s local restaurant partner to prepare 900 nourishing meals daily for the residents of Sviatohirsk and the neighboring city of Bohorodychne. “We have been supported by WCK since the first day of de-occupation and we are infinitely grateful for this help with hot meals,” said Eugenia. “By working with local businesses, they can purchase products and involve local people in helping, including me.”
Viktor from Chasiv Yar
Viktor lives in the town of Chasiv Yar, just a mile from where Russian troops are positioned. He and his wife lived in Bakhmut until a year ago, but they had to move to a warmer area for his wife’s health. Their first house in Chasiv Yar was completely destroyed by Russian rockets, so they moved to a new house and are still living there.
The situation is very difficult in Chasiv Yar: there is no heat, running water, or gas. Electricity is only available in certain places for a handful of hours each day. The city has two general stores and one pharmacy left, with a steadfast pharmacist who continues distributing medicine to people who are ill.
In spite of these circumstances, Viktor and many others in Chasiv Yar come together to support one another. “I come here to the City Support Center every day from 7 to 11 a.m., because that’s when the generator works,” said Viktor. “Here I repair electrical equipment for the locals, like their radios. Radio is the only way to get in touch with the latest news here, which is important to people. I know how to fix radios, so I help.”
Every day, Viktor picks up WCK-provided meals for himself and his wife, who has mobility issues. “It is difficult for her to prepare food,” he said. “So I take your meals and bring her a delicious, nutritious, varied lunch, at least once a day.” When he isn’t repairing objects or taking care of his wife, Viktor likes to photograph the small pieces of beauty that manage to survive even in war. “Idleness is not possible,” he said.
The war rages on, but so does life. Ukrainians remain united, kind, brave, and practical in the face of conflict. WCK is committed to standing beside them, offering whatever support is needed and providing hope, one plate of food or seed packet at a time.
Support our work in Ukraine by donating here. Learn more about our #ChefsForUkraine response here. For real-time updates, follow WCK on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
