Five Ukrainian women who fled the war in their homeland and now live in Torfaen have been helping to build closer ties with the local community by sharing their homemade dishes. Based at the Living Waters Centre in Pontypool, the Growing and Cooking Club supports displaced people living in the borough by improving access to food, reducing isolation, and bringing people together through shared experiences.
Project Origins and Partnerships
The project was established by the Torfaen Food Partnership, in collaboration with the council’s resettlement team and Hope for the Community. The first session welcomed the Ukrainian women, who prepared traditional dishes such as Chicken Kiev and Ukrainian Pampushky – fried bread balls with garlic – that were shared with members of the local community.
Cultural Exchange Through Food
Beyond cooking, the women shared stories behind the food, offering insight into Ukrainian culture, traditions, and everyday life. Alla Pylypenko, who arrived in Torfaen through the Homes for Ukraine Scheme in 2022, said: “Cooking together reminded us of home, and sharing our food with others made us feel very welcome. It was lovely to see people enjoying Ukrainian dishes and taking an interest in our culture.”
Community Resources at Living Waters Centre
The Living Waters Centre, located on Osborne Road in Pontypool, also runs a community pantry and café open on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm, Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm, and Saturdays from 10am to noon.
Refugee Awareness Week
This week also marks Refugee Awareness Week, a time to recognise the strength and resilience of refugees and celebrate the contribution they make in the communities they settle in. The Growing and Cooking Club initiative demonstrates the Torfaen Deal in action – strengthening partnerships between the council, local organisations, and residents to improve community wellbeing.
