Manitobans have checked in over 1,000 times using the Manitoba Perogy Trail. The milestone was marked at a celebratory event with the trail’s sponsor, Perogy Planet, donating $5,000 to Oseredok Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre in Winnipeg, which will help support the centre’s efforts to preserve and share Ukrainian heritage in Manitoba.

The Manitoba Perogy Trail was created as a fun and interactive way for locals and visitors alike to explore the province’s vibrant Ukrainian culture through food. The trail features stops at local eateries and shops, offering some of the best perogies in Manitoba. Participants were encouraged to check in at each location, and once 1,000 check-ins were reached, Perogy Planet pledged a generous donation to Oseredok.

The 1,000th check-in was achieved using the Manitoba Perogy Trail digital pass at Luda’s Deli in Winnipeg in November. Perogy Planet owner Rob Naleway made the donation at an event at Oseredok.

“We’re so excited to see the community come together to support local businesses and celebrate Ukrainian culture in Manitoba,” said Naleway. “Our donation is a small way to give back to the community that has given so much to Manitoba and to ensure that these stories, flavours and traditions continue to thrive.”

“For many cultures, food is about connection and sharing traditions,” said Cody Chomiak, Vice President of Marketing at Travel Manitoba. “In Manitoba, Ukrainian food holds a special place in our hearts and few dishes capture that as universally as perogies. The Manitoba Perogy Trail was a unique initiative that resonated with Manitobans and visitors to the province. We’re thrilled to see the success of this trail and initiatives like these that bring people together, highlight Manitoba’s rich cultural mosaic and make meaningful connections through shared experiences.”

“This donation will make a significant impact on our programming, allowing us to continue sharing and celebrating Ukrainian culture in Manitoba,” said Yulia Zmerzla, Executive Director of Oseredok. “We’re deeply grateful to Perogy Planet, Travel Manitoba and everyone who participated in the Manitoba Perogy Trail.”

The Manitoba Perogy Trail remains open for those who want to explore the province’s perogy offerings. Users who check-in at 25 participating restaurants will receive a special Manitoba Perogy Trail pin to commemorate their efforts. There are 56 participating restaurants currently part of the Manitoba Perogy Trail.