Americans Volunteering in Ukraine

We are volunteering in Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital. We have visited three NGOs here. The one I would like to highlight is Kyiv Kitchen Hub “Ants.” They do really vital work preparing dried and ready-to-eat meals from scratch for front line soldiers who have no cooking facilities. Their all-volunteer team is very dedicated and collegial, including several international volunteers. Their equipment and ingredients are all donated, except beef for jerky, which they buy only when they can afford it.

One of the people we met was Michael from the US Midwest. He was concerned when Putin invaded Ukraine, and started thinking about coming to volunteer. He has background in disaster relief and a wide range of skills to contribute. He arrived in Kyiv the end of January and has been volunteering at Kitchen Hub for two weeks now. Although no experience is needed--they train their volunteers with any needed skills--Michael has years of restaurant experience so was able to hit the ground running, all while learning the language and challenges facing Ukraine. He is impressed with the “Ants” professionalism, resourcefulness, and forward thinking. He is applying for a long-term visa to continue his work here.

For a rich description of the history and activities of Kitchen Hub check out this post.  And here is a video of Hub founder Oksana Ovarenko showing us their current batch of food packs. 

It takes 15-20 people every day to operate and replenishments are always needed. You can read about how to join on their volunteer opportunities page. And donations are needed to pay the monthly rent rent and electric bill typically about 73 thousand hryvnias--about $1,760. 

‍You can support Kyiv Kitchen Hub “Ants” at https://murashky.com/ or directly via PayPal to Ovcharenko.Konstantin.N@gmail.com . Extra $$$ will enable them to make beef jerky for the scouts!

 

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