On August 20, 2026, Father Viktor Bilous, a staff member of the Apostolic Nunciature in Ukraine, delivered Vatican aid to a solidarity kitchen in the village of Berestia, located in the northwestern Rivne region. The financial assistance was provided by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, also known as the Office of Papal Charities, to support local volunteers preparing meals for Ukrainian soldiers.
The grassroots kitchen was founded by volunteer Tetiana Pinchuk, who mobilized women from Berestia and neighboring communities. Working from dedicated facilities set up in Pinchuk’s home, the volunteers prepare meals packaged in retort pouches, allowing the food to be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. Seeking assistance for the operation, Pinchuk reached out to the Holy See’s diplomatic mission. Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas assigned Father Bilous to evaluate the request, which led to a project proposal and a swift funding approval from the Vatican.
During his visit to deliver the aid, Father Bilous was accompanied by the Latin Catholic pastor from nearby Sarny. The delegation was met with warm hospitality, including a welcome with traditional korovai bread, and was given a full tour of the meal preparation process. Father Bilous noted the profound spiritual impact of the visit on the volunteers, none of whom are Catholic. Despite being Orthodox and Protestant, the women were deeply moved to receive support directly from the Pope’s representatives, and the group shared a moment of prayer to bless the food and pray for the soldiers.
Beyond the immediate practical help, Father Bilous emphasized that the Vatican’s contribution carries significant symbolic weight for the community. The volunteers expressed hope that the highly visible support from the Pope and his Almoner will draw broader attention to their efforts and inspire others to step forward and support the solidarity kitchen’s mission.