Photo from a former rally to support Ukraine hosted by Mariia Anosova (middle, far right).
Mariia Anosova, a local resident, has always loved to cook and share meals with her family and friends.
“Ukrainian food and cooking is a love language,” she said.
When thinking of ways to support her native country during a time of war, it was this “love language” that she wanted to draw upon. On May 14, she will hold a dinner fundraiser and educational event to benefit Ukraine.
The fundraiser, to be held at Slate Hill Mennonite Church in Camp Hill, will include a cultural presentation and cooking demonstration featuring three traditional Ukrainian dishes. Following the presentation, guests will be served a three-course dinner of beet borscht soup, vareniki (similar to perogies) and blini pancakes.
Growing up in Ukraine, Anosova’s family would always eat at least one meal together each day, she said. Food brought them together. Now, most of her family is still living in Ukraine; some have recently sought refuge in Poland. Anosova came to the United States as an exchange student and remained here since.
“It’s been intense,” she said. “I’m trying to find a way to help even though I’m far away.”
She hopes she can do that through the fundraising event, as well as by spreading cultural awareness.
“Experiencing culture will help people understand that we are all human and we are all here for peace,” she said. “I want to make it more relatable.”
Registration for the dinner is required and costs $40 per person. All proceeds will go to the charitable organizations Come Back Alive and Stay Safe Ukraine. The event is limited to 40 participants.
Anosova plans to hold another fundraiser dinner on June 18, possibly with more to follow.
“People should come if they want to learn more, love to cook, or are willing to help Ukraine,” she said.
Slate Hill Mennonite Church is located at 1352 Slate Hill Rd., Camp Hill. To register for the Ukrainian fundraiser dinner, email marianosova007@gmail.com.
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