Island Empanada and Blue Point Brewing Co. to host Ukraine benefits

All nine Long Island locations of Island Empanada, as well as Blue Point Brewing Co. in Patchogue, are independently planning fundraisers to help aid Ukraine.

On March 21, Island Empanada will donate 15% of food and drink sales to the Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church in Lindenhurst. Its menu, comprised of more than 25 empanadas stuffed with beef, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetables, goes beyond its signature, offering sides like rice and beans, sweet plantains, soup, wings and fries.

Island Empanada has locations in Ronkonkoma, Medford, Rocky Point, Deer Park, Commack, Merrick, Shirley, Lindenhurst and Oakdale.

More info: islandempanada.com

On March 23, from 5 to 9 p.m., Blue Point Brewing Co. will open its doors for a fundrasier that includes unlimited small bites from The Tap Room, Whiskey Neat, That Meetball Place, Del Fuego, Bobbique and several other Patchogue restaurants. Tickets — purchased on eventbrite.com or at the door — are $45. All ticket proceeds, as well as money raised with raffles, will go to Jose Andres' World Central Kitchen.

The brewery, which welcomes families, will also be donating all proceeds from the purchase of its Lagerbier to the organization (all drinks are pay-as-you-go). Kids under 10 are free, with an "optional donation," says Shelby Poole, the brewery's experience manager.

There will be live music by various acts throughout the night.

Blue Point Brewing Co. is at 225 West Main St. in Patchogue. More info: 631-627-8292; bluepointbrewing.com