CAZENOVIA, N.Y. (NCC News) – Local breweries are banding together in support of Ukraine. It began with Talking Cursive Brewery’s Paul Zemba. Zemba had an existing relationship with Pravda Beer Theater in Lviv, Ukraine. When Pravda stopped brewing beer and started making Molotov cocktails, Zemba decided to get local brewers together.
Ivan Dedek is the head brewmaster at Meier’s Brewing Company is Cazenovia, one of the largest breweries in Central New York. He’s leading the effort to brew Pravda’s golden ale.
“It kinda blew up and became 20 or 21 local breweries getting together and brewing this beer where proceeds go to the Ukraine,” Dedek said.
After a zoom call last month between Pravda and CNY brewers including Zemba and Dedek, it quickly became an easy decision to get involved, especially after hearing first-hand horror stories from Ukrainians directly impacted by Russia’s ongoing invasion.
“From the start it was a great plan and when we actually got to speak with him, knowing those funds are going to help out people in need in a war-torn area is really key.”
When consumers buy the beer, which hits participating breweries on April 22, they can be assured that all proceeds go to humanitarian relief in Ukraine.
“Pravda has set up an account that basically they are using for several different options,” Dedek said. “They were helping out for health issues with people that were injured during bombings and things like that.”
Any donating patron can also scan a QR code printed directly on the label and on the walls of participating locations that will take them to a GoFundMe page. At this page, they can donate even more if they feel inclined. Between both avenues to donate, buying the beer and donating directly to the GoFundMe, Dedek expects not only to recoup the funds it took to brew and can the ale but to have lots left over to donate.
“We do have a number in mind that basically the collaborative effort of breweries should be donating,” Dedek said. “It’s a fair amount. I’m hoping we are able to raise a fair amount of money for the humanitarian effort in Ukraine”.
