Piece and Freedom Bakery, a Ukrainian‑owned shop in downtown Ames, has turned the week of August 24 into a celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day. Co‑owner Shalika Khindurangala said the bakery will be closed on Monday, the official holiday, so the celebration will run the entire week with special menu items, free stickers and cultural displays.
Sharing Ukrainian culture with the community
The bakery, founded by three Ukrainian women, was created to showcase Ukrainian food and traditions that are hard to find elsewhere in Iowa. During Independence Week the shop offers a sweet crepe filled with farmer’s cheese, along with other treats that reflect the country’s culinary heritage. Khindurangala spends part of each day teaching customers basic Ukrainian words, including the term for “independence.”
Most of the bakery’s patrons are non‑Ukrainian Iowans, which Khindurangala says is a blessing because it gives people who have never visited Ukraine a chance to experience its culture. Ukrainian customers also support the shop, though many already prepare similar dishes at home.
Fundraising for a family member in the Ukrainian military
A donation box inside the bakery is collecting money for the father of co‑owner Hanna, who is serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The contributions will be sent directly to his battalion (Unit A‑4941) to help purchase needed equipment.
Khindurangala emphasized that the war in Ukraine is ongoing and that the bakery’s celebration is meant to keep the issue in the public eye.
Temporary Protected Status deadline adds urgency
October 19, 2026 marks the end of the federal Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Ukrainians living in the United States. The designation, extended in 2025 for another 18 months, allows eligible individuals to remain in the country, avoid removal and obtain work authorization while the war continues. When TPS expires, beneficiaries must rely on any other lawful status they hold, or seek a new one, meaning outcomes will differ from person to person.
Khindurangala warned that many friends, family members and staff connected to the bakery could be forced to leave Iowa if their immigration status is not secured before the deadline. “These are people who came here legally, who are working legally, paying taxes and contributing to the community,” she said.
Broader community support
The bakery’s efforts are part of a larger wave of local support for Ukraine. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reports that hundreds of Ukrainians displaced by the war have resettled in the state, and a statewide collaboration called ALL Iowa provides legal assistance to Ukrainian and Afghan nationals.
Another fundraiser is scheduled for September 5, when the Run for Ukraine 5K will take place at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. All proceeds will be donated through the nonprofit Nova Ukraine to help Ukrainians rebuild and survive.
Through food, education and fundraising, Piece and Freedom Bakery aims to preserve Ukrainian culture while reminding Ames residents of the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian immigrants and the importance of the upcoming TPS deadline.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
