Port Clinton’s distinguished Bistro 163, a noted 5-Star pay-it-forward restaurant managed by Babs Klacik, is conducting a fundraiser to support Ukrainian people displaced by the war. Ten million Ukrainians, 25 percent of the country’s population, have left their homes in the past month.

Of the 10 million, about seven million people are living in shelters in their own towns or have sought safety elsewhere in the country. Over three million people have fled to neighboring countries.

According to the United Nations, this is the largest displacement of Europeans since World War II. More than half of Ukraine’s children are no longer living in their own homes. One of the first needs of displaced people is food.

Bistro 163’s staff and board, as well as its volunteers and donors, know the provision of meals in time of crisis meets a great need.

World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization that responds immediately in crisis situations, was serving meals in Poland to Ukrainian refugees within two days of the war’s beginning. As their founder, Jose Andres said, “You see, food relief is not just a meal that keeps hunger away, it’s a plate of hope.

“It tells you in your darkest hour that someone, somewhere, cares about you,” said Andres.

“This the real meaning of comfort food. It’s why we make the effort to cook in a crisis.”

Ukraine supporters have already served more than 1 million meals in countries bordering Ukraine, as well as supporting restaurants and other meal providers in Ukraine.

Ed Carlson, Bistro 163’s Board President, said, “Bistro 163’s desire to reduce food insecurity and build community. That mission ties in very well with what World Central Kitchen does in emergency crises – both providing healthy hot food and building a sense of community and caring — are integral to both organizations’ missions.”

Bistro 163 has received two matching grants of $5,000, one from Hal and Diane Hawk and their family, the other from an anonymous couple. All monies donated through Saturday, April 30 will be matched and will go directly to World Central Kitchen. All Pay-It-Forward donations received from patrons will be donated by Bistro 163.

You may also send your check to Bistro 163, 1848 East Perry St., Sutton Center Suite 10, Port Clinton, Ohio 43452, or donate on its website, www.bistro163.org.