Rachael Ray Honored with Golden Heart Award for Humanitarian Work in Ukraine: ‘Blessed to Serve’
- - Rachael Ray Honored with Golden Heart Award for Humanitarian Work in Ukraine: ‘Blessed to Serve’
Erin ClementsJanuary 23, 2026 at 5:56 AM
0
Kristina Bumphrey/PictureGroup for National Geographic/Shutterstock
Rachael Ray -
Rachael Ray has been given a Golden Heart Award by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky
The award is given to those who have made “significant contributions to humanitarian aid and volunteerism"
"I feel blessed to serve Ukraine, and I’m already planning our eighth mission,” Ray said
Rachael Ray has been honored for her humanitarian work with a Golden Heart Award by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America made the announcement on Thursday, Jan. 22. The celebrity chef is a longtime partner of the organization.
The award is given to those who have made “significant contributions to humanitarian aid and volunteerism, particularly in support of Ukraine during Russia’s military aggression,” per a release shared with PEOPLE.
“I’m overwhelmed and humbled and a little embarrassed to be noticed for something that should simply be done,” Ray tells PEOPLE. “I’m profoundly grateful to President Zelenskyy for this honor, and I share it with our partners. I feel blessed to serve Ukraine, and I’m already planning our eighth mission.”
Ray was chosen for her participation in seven humanitarian missions that involved cooking with children and wounded soldiers, delivering frontline first aid kits, providing medical supplies and equipment, and engaging with local authorities and youth centers.
Daniel Zuchnik/Getty
Rachael Ray and Lee Brian Schrager attend the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival Chef's Corner
“Through her platform, she has consistently highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine and the urgency of humanitarian aid,” the announcement said.
Andriy Futey, who served as UCCA president from 2016 to 2024, and is currently Special Envoy to Ukraine, has accompanied the culinary star on each mission.
“Our entire Ukrainian American community is thrilled that President Zelensky has
recognized Rachael with this prestigious award,” Futey said in a statement. “Her dedication, compassion, and partnership with UCCA have been an inspiration and a lifeline to the people of Ukraine.”
“We are deeply grateful for her continued support and tireless contributions,” he added.
Ray is known for her dedication to philanthropic causes, such as animal welfare, child nutrition, and food education.
In June, she appeared at North Shore Animal League America’s Celebration of Rescue gala in New York City, an event whose proceeds support the no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization’s mission.
She also holds annual hosting duties at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash.
Proceeds from SOBEWFF’s festival ticket sales benefit Florida International University (FIU) and its students preparing to work in the hospitality industry. Past years have already raised more than $40 million total for FIU.
In February 2025, Ray told PEOPLE, “I come here because I love the kids and pushing all of their lives forward. For over 20 years, I come here out of loyalty. I think that's a big part of life.”
on People
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
