Over the past several weeks, all of us at Chime have been watching with deep sorrow the continued unfolding of the invasion of Ukraine. While we generally focus our attention on domestic issues, where we have our members, employees, and operations, we recognize that this is a global crisis that has larger implications for all of us.
Today, we have committed $100,000 to World Central Kitchen (WCK), a non-profit organization that provides fresh meals in response to crises, and is active in Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Moldova, and Hungary, as part of its #ChefsForUkraine response. In addition to this, Chime and its founders will match employee donations up to $100,000.
WCK began serving hot meals within hours of the initial invasion of Ukraine, and quickly set up at the eight border crossings with Poland. WCK’s Chefs for Ukraine response has grown rapidly and is distributing nourishing food and fresh meals across the region, including Ukraine, Poland, Hungary, Moldova, and Romania. In addition to WCK’s field kitchen, WCK is working with local restaurants, caterers, and food trucks to provide fresh and comforting meals at border crossings, shelters, and other locations along their journey. In addition to hot meals, WCK is distributing bulk food products including produce and dry goods to restaurant partners in Ukraine to supplement the strained food supply chain.
Prior to this invasion, Russia had already been included on our list of countries where Chime was blocked, and we fully support Visa’s decision to suspend operations in Russia.
While these are our actions today, we are closely monitoring this crisis and will continue to evaluate where and how we can support those impacted. We thank our Chimers for their support to the people of Ukraine.
