Refugee Inna bowls over Annan residents with her thank you

Refugee Inna’s Touched the Hearts of Annan Residents with Heartfelt Thank-You

World Kindness Day took on a special meaning for the community of Annan in Dumfriesshire when Ukrainian refugee Inna Dorofeieva shared her homemade tomato soup with residents as a gesture of gratitude. Inna, who escaped the Russian invasion in Kiev in 2022 with her son, now resides in Dumfries and works as a cook at Kate’s Kitchen on Annan High Street. The warm reception she has received from the Annan locals has inspired her to give back through charitable acts.

On World Kindness Day, Inna collaborated with The Cumberland Building Society to distribute over 400 cups of her signature tomato soup to the community. The initiative aimed to encourage recipients to pay forward the kindness they received. The Cumberland also highlighted their Kinder Kind of Kitchen project, which supports community initiatives combatting food poverty. Inna’s tomato soup recipe, featured in The Kinder Cookbook, was a hit among the locals.

Inna expressed her appreciation for the support she has received in Annan, emphasizing the sense of belonging she has found in the community. Reflecting on her experiences, Inna shared, “The people here are like my family. I need to work to support my son. I like to work and they gave me that chance at Kate’s Kitchen.” She remains uncertain about returning to Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.

Residents of Annan were delighted by Inna’s kind gesture, with many praising the Cumberland’s efforts to support local food initiatives. The heartwarming act of sharing homemade soup sparked conversations about kindness and helping those in need. Reflecting on the impact of Inna’s generosity, locals expressed sentiments of unity and support for community-led initiatives.

Inna’s act of kindness serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and community support, especially in challenging times. Her willingness to give back to the community exemplifies the resilience and generosity of individuals who have overcome adversity. Through simple acts of kindness, Inna has fostered a sense of unity and compassion in Annan, embodying the spirit of World Kindness Day.