Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/cat-cafe-lviv-stays-open-during-war/
Over a million people have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began, but the devoted owner of Cat Cafe Lviv is not going anywhere.
The cafe, a short walk from the city center, remains open amid the war to care for the twenty resident cats and provide a safe place for people to come relax and enjoy a hot meal.
Serhii Oliinyk owner of the cafe told The Dodo, “Our cats have been living in [the] cat cafe since the age of 4 months. They are like family. We realized that we would never leave our country, that this was the only place where we could see ourselves in the future.”
Along with his family and close friends, Oliinyk makes sure the cats are fed and cared for and opens the cafe every day so Ukrainians can get something warm to drink or eat while enjoying the company of the cats.
The friendly felines, that range from Sphynx to Maine Coon, roam freely around the cafe and provide much-needed comfort and distraction to guests.
The cafe posted a photo of one of their cats and wrote, “In this difficult time, your Cat Cafe is open everyday from 9:00 to 21:00! Don’t panic and pray for our soldiers!”
They are doing their best to keep the cats and guests safe.
“We currently have fewer regular visitors, but there are people who have come from other cities and need hot food and positive emotions,” Oliinyk said. “There are three large rooms in our cafe, two of which are located in the basement, so in case of an air raid warning, there is a safe shelter for our guests and cats.”
People from around the world have reached out to send love and donations to the cafe. The donations will be used to help feed and care for the cats and 50% will be sent to help the Ukrainian army.
В цей нелегкий час ваш Cat Cafe працює щодня з 9:00 до 21:00! 20% перераховуємо українській армії! До зустрічі!…
Posted by Cat Cafe on Friday, February 25, 2022
One person commented, “We continue to support you, and are in awe of your humanity, bravery, and kindness in the face of this evil and unprovoked attack. From our kitties and us, in California USA.💙💛”
The cafe is grateful for all the support and shared, “Each of you personally bought not only food and peace to the kitties, but also demonstrated the unity of nations in the fight against the aggressor! Pray For Our Warriors!!!”
Follow Cat Cafe Lviv on Facebook for more updates.
Join us in providing food and critical supplies to people and pets in Ukraine. Donate now!
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
