All over the capital region and especially here in Lake George, we rely on the international students and (J1 Student work program) to staff our local businesses and boost our economy. With the exception of the pandemics affects in recent years, hundreds of students come to our area to work each summer. Most of them work 2 or even 3 jobs at a time and they are an integral part of some businesses success for the tourists season.

A large number of the students come from Eastern European countries like Poland, Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. Not only do our business depend on these students and their hard work but many of us have made lifelong friendships and remain in contact years after they’ve returned to their home country.

Join us Saturday, March 5th at 10 McGillis Public House in Lake George for our #ChefsForUkraine event where, in conjunction with this fundraising page, we will be matching a portion of all donations made that day. Follow our social media for the events special and menu updates and help us support World Central Kitchen (WCK) and it’s efforts during this Ukraine crisis.

Working at a 24-hour pedestrian border crossing in southern Poland, WCK began serving hot, nourishing meals within hours of the initial invasion and are now set up at eight border crossings across the country. Additionally, they are supporting local restaurants preparing meals in five Ukrainian cities including in Odessa and Lviv. WCK teams are also on the ground in Romania and Moldova, and arriving soon to Slovakia, and Hungary.

Please help us support Chef Andrés and WCK so his team can continue to help those in need.