Ukrainian families invited to borsch supper tonight in Oliver

In light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a couple from Oliver is opening their doors and offering a borsch supper to any local Ukrainian family tonight.

Kandus and Brad Thorp have traveled to Ukraine several times for work. They were co-founders of HopeTV, a Christian television network.

Their last trip to the area was in January 2018, when they travelled to Kiev as well as Moscow.

“We made many friends on both sides of that border,” Kandus said.

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She has spoken with a many Ukrainians and people of Ukrainian descent who are fearful and hurting because of the invasion.

“So we wanted to reach out to the community and offer a neutral place. People could just meet, talk about their family – how better to do that than over a hot bowl of food and fresh bread?”

Kandus grew up in Germany and has been cooking borsch all her life but will be making this batch Ukrainian style. There will be lots of beets, red cabbage and black beans. She also baked fresh bread. 

The couple wants to share it to show compassion and support during a stressful time.

“We know your beloved homeland, we’ve visited a number of times, and we’re really, really sorry to see what’s happening.”

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Her posts to community Facebook groups about the gathering were well received, but she has only received a handful of messages from interested people so far. 

The open house runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. tonight, Feb. 25. It’s open to any Ukrainian families from the South Okanagan.

Kandus can be reached through Facebook messenger.

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