Resiliency Gardens for Ukrainian Refugees and IDPs

Ukrainian borshch—a beloved national dish made with beetroot, broth, and a variety of vegetables—has deep cultural roots. In 2022, it was included on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. We partnered with the Bukovinian Agency of Regional Development (BARD) to honor this cultural tradition by creating a project where students in Kyiv learned how to grow the ingredients and cook a family borshch using their own family recipes. 

The students, ranging from grades 1 to 11,  planted and tended crops such as carrots, beets, onions, cabbage, and various herbs. They also collected recipes from their own families to create a set of illustrated recipe cards. In total, 61 families participated. During classroom discussions, students were surprised to discover the diversity of family recipes—each with its own special ingredients, cooking techniques, and personal stories passed down through generations.

Taking the project a step further, students and teachers created dry borshch kits to send to soldiers on the front lines. The process of drying vegetables—already time-intensive—became even more challenging due to energy blackouts in Kyiv caused by Russian airstrikes on critical infrastructure. Despite these difficulties, the students remained determined and managed to prepare smaller batches of dry borshch to send to the parents of some of the students who are currently serving. These care packages offered more than just a nutritious and convenient meal—they provided a taste of home, and a heartfelt message of comfort, support, and gratitude to those defending Ukraine.

We are continuing to partner with BARD this year and look forward to sharing more information with you. Thank you sincerely for supporting these programs that celebrate Ukrainian culture, unify communities, and provide comfort during distress.