How Veselka is helping with Ukraine relief efforts

Photo by Steven

Veselka, which has been serving up traditional Ukrainian food since 1954, has long served as a gathering spot for the city's Ukrainian population. 

And since Russia invaded Ukraine last Thursday, the restaurant on the SE corner of Second Avenue and Ninth Street has seen long lines as New Yorkers have come out to show their solidarity.

"Many of our staff members are Ukrainian. Everyone is up all night, talking to family members," Veselka's third-generation owner Jason Birchard told the Daily Mail. "Some are so distraught, they can't even come to work. They are hanging by a thread, feeling so angry, upset and helpless." 

Veselka accepts donations for Ukraine relief efforts, including cotton socks, heavy-duty gloves, batteries, flashlights and personal health items. (Find a list of items here.) You may drop off the items at the Ninth Street entrance. 

In addition, as announced yesterday, all proceeds from Veselka's borscht sales — in-store and take-out — will go to Ukraine relief...

Veselka has teamed with the Razom For Ukraine organization to handle all donations. 

The restaurant is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ... with a midnight close on weekends.