WCK’s Commitment to Ukraine

Four years ago, when Russia launched its full scale invasion, World Central Kitchen made a simple promise: We stand with the people of Ukraine.

Since those first days in 2022, WCK has served more than 295 million meals to Ukrainians surviving the war—at train stations and border crossings, in de-occupied towns, and in cities under constant attack. 

But our commitment has never been about the numbers. It’s about showing up, again and again, wherever and whenever people need us most.

When power and heat are cut in winter, we bring hot meals. When supply chains are disrupted, we find new ways to cook and deliver food safely.

We have innovated alongside Ukrainians every step of the way. We launched community kitchens to allow displaced families to cook for themselves with dignity. We delivered frontline food kits to families living closest to the fighting. We responded immediately after Russian strikes to serve first responders and families picking up the pieces. 

On this anniversary, we honor the thousands of Ukrainians who have made this work possible. We especially honor our friends, volunteers, and all humanitarians who have been killed simply because they believed their neighbors deserved care and nourishment. 

Their courage demands that we continue.

Today is a reminder that our work must go on: for Ukrainians, for our shared humanity, for freedom and democracy. 

Ukraine’s strength comes from its brave and inspiring people. Our role is to stand shoulder to shoulder with them, supporting local partners, adapting to new challenges, and ensuring a warm meal is always there in moments of crisis.

We will keep cooking. We will keep innovating. And we will keep standing with Ukraine. 

José Andrés
WCK Founder

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