Driven by the devastating events in Ukraine, owners Aptsiauri, a native of Georgia, and Pavlichenko, who is Ukrainian, launched Charleston4Ukraine (#CHS4Ukraine). This initiative provides a crucial channel for Charlestonians to express their solidarity and offer direct aid to the people affected by the war, including the owners’ own families and friends still in Ukraine. Immediately following the invasion, Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe mobilized an initial two-day supply drive, amassing over 26,000 pounds of essential humanitarian aid. These supplies were then directly dispatched to trusted contacts within Ukraine. “This is profoundly personal for me,” Aptsiauri shares, drawing a parallel to her homeland’s ongoing recovery from the 2008 Russian invasion of Georgia. “It’s unimaginable to grasp the anguish of those with loved ones in Ukraine. My husband is in daily contact with his family – it’s utterly heartbreaking.”
Medical supplies destined for Ukraine being transported by local physician Maria Dzierzko-Trojanowska to partners in Poland
Local physician Maria Dzierzko-Trojanowska delivers critical medical supplies to Polish partners for Ukrainian aid, showcasing community support for Ukraine at Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe.
The outpouring of support has been continuous since the initial drive, and Charleston4Ukraine, under the fiscal sponsorship of West Ashley Connects, has now achieved official non-profit status. A vital partnership with an association of Ukrainian doctors ensures that aid and supplies are effectively directed to meet the most pressing needs on the ground. Dr. Maria Dzierzko-Trojanowska, a local internist with Polish roots, recently collaborated with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health to personally transport 100 pounds of vital medical assistance.
Charleston4Ukraine purchases field medical kits to support those affected by the war in Ukraine
Essential field medical kits procured by Charleston4Ukraine, an initiative born from Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe, ready to provide critical first aid in Ukraine.
“Through our organization, we’ve been able to assist 150 children,” states Aptsiauri, the founder and coordinator of Charleston4Ukraine, who is supported by a dedicated team including Brittany Ferrior and Anna Spann. “Every contribution, regardless of size, is significant. A single packet of Celox, a blood clotting agent, can be life-saving and costs just $26.” Individuals can contribute financially through the Charleston4Ukraine website or purchase needed items directly from their Amazon wishlist. The organization’s Facebook page is regularly updated with current needs, volunteer opportunities, and firsthand accounts from Ukrainian refugees and those within the country.
Elena Piorkowski donates trauma kits with essential first-aid items to Charleston4Ukraine for Ukraine relief efforts
Elena Piorkowski’s donation of trauma kits, filled with tourniquets and bandages, highlights community contributions to Charleston4Ukraine through Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe.
Charleston4Ukraine has also served as a catalyst for broader community engagement. Glenn Ross, a regular patron of Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe, extended his support by offering housing to Ukrainian refugees and assisting them in finding employment. In a powerful symbol of solidarity, Mayor John Tecklenburg requested a Ukrainian flag from Aptsiauri to be flown at City Hall. June marked a significant milestone with a $10,000 donation from the Evening Exchange Club of Charleston, further amplified by a challenge match to its statewide sister clubs. “The overwhelming display of solidarity has been deeply moving,” Aptsiauri reflects. “Euro Foods Bakery & Cafe has truly become a vibrant community hub. Daily, people come in, asking how they can contribute.”
Explore Ways to Help:
- Stay informed and discover immediate needs by following Chs4Ukraine on Facebook.
- Make a donation and learn more at the official Charleston4Ukraine website.
