The design was created by the bakery’s owner, Katie Anne Karamol, who found a way to use her creative skill set to help people who have been affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“I wanted to create a cookie that represented Ukraine, but I also wanted to create something that showed our love and support,” Karamol said in an email. “The cookie is rolled in red hearts and Fruity Pebbles representing our support that is surrounding the families in Ukraine.”

Being thousands of miles from the crisis makes it difficult for people to find ways to help, so Karamol said she wants to provide a way for people in East Lansing and the surrounding areas to show their support locally.

“Being a small business owner gives me a platform to be able to make a small impact on our community, so I wanted to share this opportunity,” she said in the email. “Most of the time people want to help in these situations but don’t really know how. I wanted to be the outlet and I’m doing it the only way I know how, to bake!”

Tina Shultz, an East Lansing resident, was looking for a way to show her support for the Ukrainian mothers displaced by the violence when she found Mitten Raised fundraiser and placed an order with the bakery. 

“I like donating to charities or fundraisers when I can, and support local businesses,” Shultz said via text. “I've had items from Mitten Raised a few times and have always been happy with them. When I saw that the cookies support Ukrainian mothers, I felt the need to support them. I think it's amazing what Mitten Raised is doing, and wanted to help.”

Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, forcing millions of Ukrainians to flee their homes and find refuge in neighboring countries. While violence still rages across the country, those who were fortunate enough to get out of harm’s way find themselves starting from scratch.

“It is hard enough to watch what is going on right now between Russia and Ukraine but to see how it is affecting families and young children is really tough,” Karamol said in the email. “I can’t even imagine being in their shoes, so I wanted to do something, anything I could to help. Being a mother now has completely changed me. I want to protect my family the best I can, so I want to help these families be able to feel loved and supported given what is going on.”

All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will go to support the women and children of Ukraine. Orders can be placed on the bakery’s website and can be picked up on April 23.