Vatican provides aid to Ukrainian solidarity kitchen

The Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development has provided financial support to a solidarity kitchen in Berestia, located in the Rivne region of northwestern Ukraine. The initiative, founded by volunteer Tetiana Pinchukova, involves a group of approximately ten women who prepare long-lasting meals for Ukrainian soldiers.

The meals are packed in retort pouches, which allow for extended storage without refrigeration, making them suitable for transport to various areas along the front lines. Father Viktor Bilous, an employee of the Apostolic Nunciature in Ukraine, personally delivered the aid on August 20, 2026, after the project was approved by the Holy See.

Although the volunteers are of Orthodox or Protestant faiths, they expressed significant appreciation for the assistance coming from the Pope. The project serves as a practical example of the Church’s involvement in supporting populations affected by war.