Charity Route of the “Kitchen of Friendship” in Kharkiv Region

After successfully completing its mission in Sumy region, the team of the “Kitchen of Friendship” initiative — part of the international project “Yurt of Invincibility” — continued its journey to the Kharkiv region. This area, which faces the daily challenges of war, became another важный этап нашего благотворительного маршрута. On March 18–19, the team worked in Bohodukhiv and Nova Vodolaha.

Warm Pilaf and Meaningful Conversations in Bohodukhiv

It was critically important for us to visit Kharkiv region and its border communities, where people live under constant stress. On March 18, our team arrived in Bohodukhiv. Under the open sky, volunteers of the “Kitchen of Friendship” prepared around 600 portions of authentic Kazakh pilaf, with its rich aroma blending into the first breath of spring.

Local residents shared that this initiative meant much more to them than just a meal.

“We are deeply grateful for your work and care. The pilaf is amazing, but most importantly — it’s the attention you give to us, the people living near the border,” said grateful residents of Bohodukhiv.

Representatives of the Bohodukhiv City Council also emphasized:

“Your support is our shared step toward victory and peace.”

The Taste of Support in Nova Vodolaha

The following day, March 19, the “Kitchen of Friendship” set up its location in Nova Vodolaha. Throughout the day, the team prepared and distributed about 600 portions of hot meals.

Once again, we saw how a shared meal can become a true bridge between cultures, bringing people together on a deeply human level. For the residents of Nova Vodolaha, it was not only an opportunity to try a new dish, but also to discover the traditions of a friendly nation through sincere communication with volunteers. Such initiatives enrich communities and foster deeper mutual respect between countries.

“For us, this is more than just food. It’s a way to share warmth, support people’s spirits in difficult times, and show them that they are not alone,” the volunteers of the “Kitchen of Friendship” noted.

Moving Toward a Greater Goal: 15,000 Portions

In Kharkiv region, we witnessed the unbreakable spirit of the people, and this inspires us to keep moving forward. Bohodukhiv and Nova Vodolaha have become important points on the map of our mission. Our work continues, as many more communities are still waiting for the warmth of the “Kitchen of Friendship.”

We are steadily moving toward our goal — preparing 15,000 portions of pilaf across Ukraine, particularly in frontline and border regions.

About the “Kitchen of Friendship” Initiative

The large-scale implementation of the “Kitchen of Friendship” initiative in border and frontline areas has been made possible thanks to the combined efforts of many people. The initiator and driving force behind the project is Member of the Ukrainian Parliament Serhii Nahorniak, Head of the Interparliamentary Relations Group with the Republic of Kazakhstan. Together with the major Kazakh holding “BI Group”, they have joined forces to provide systematic support to Ukrainian communities.