We all remember how the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Although some of those who crossed the border returned to Ukraine or moved to other countries, government statistics show that 1.7 million Ukrainians applied for protection. The vast majority remained in Poland, unsure if and when they would return to their homes and family members they had to leave behind. Many of them have found jobs, and their children attend Polish schools.

MATERIAL NEEDS

Time passes, but there is still no end in sight to the war. The OM team in Poland continues to meet the long-term needs of those living in uncertainty. Material needs are still very evident, as we see every week when we invite nearly a hundred people in need to receive clothing, food, and hygiene supplies. In total, more than a thousand families receive assistance, including seniors over 80, caregivers of large families, people with disabilities or injuries, and war widows. For some, their only income is a Ukrainian pension, which is not enough to cover even the most basic costs of living in the EU, not to mention more complex medical needs.

COMMUNITY OF HOPE

Unchanged, the most pressing needs we see are the psychological, social, and spiritual difficulties of those who have been tragically affected by the experiences of the last two years. Many people who are searching for their place have found a welcoming space at the House of Cultures, established by OM for representatives of all nations in Warsaw. They come there to participate in various programs—classes, meetings, courses. It is not only a safe and friendly space to meet others in similar situations, but also an opportunity to learn and develop skills such as languages, fitness, art, and dance, and to participate in support groups, prayer, and discussion. Such a variety of activities builds deep, meaningful bonds between people.

HEALING BROKEN HEARTS

Oksana, a member of the OM team who left her home in Ukraine because of the war, leads a support group for women. “During our meetings, we openly and honestly share our experiences. We encourage each other and give each other advice. One woman admitted how grateful she is that I openly encourage her to trust God. If it weren't for that, she couldn't imagine how she could continue to function, given the circumstances she found herself in. Another woman confessed that these meetings help her find respite and comfort in the middle of the week, when she feels very burdened at work and misunderstood by other people."

The psychological burden of war affects all age groups. Responding to the needs of the youngest and their caregivers, we have introduced the OpSAFE program, which provides children with first aid psychological care and support after experiencing trauma. We run five-day day camps filled with fun and stories, accompanied by the message that every child is valuable, that they are not doomed to loneliness, and that with the help of trustworthy adults, they can rebuild their future with a sense of security. We have trained and prepared hundreds of volunteers, providing access to this form of assistance to over 3,000 children throughout Poland. The message of this program has had a huge impact on their lives.

PROTECTION OF THE VULNERABLE

We also continue to work in the area of protecting particularly vulnerable groups and education. We are a partner organization in a program for orphans and children in foster care, we continue to provide humanitarian transport to Ukraine (over 300 tons in total), and we are developing a comprehensive program for teenagers focused on their educational and emotional needs and evangelization.

THE CITY ON THE MOUNTAIN

Since the beginning of the war, churches in Poland have played a powerful role in meeting the rapidly growing needs of refugees arriving from across the eastern border. In Kutno, a church run by OM members has grown through providing assistance, leading to the formation of a separate Ukrainian community that operates alongside the Polish congregation. It all started with the creation of a night shelter in the church building and supporting new arrivals in their practical needs. Currently, the team at this location focuses on building lasting relationships and developing community life, sharing hope and continuing to provide multidimensional assistance to those in need.

LOVE THAT LASTS

When Ukrainians began heading west, our teams almost immediately began serving at the border. Volunteers from around the world joined us for a few days, weeks, or months. When the influx of refugees slowed down somewhat, these teams continued their work at accommodation centers in various locations. Currently, the Response Team, made up of international volunteers, visits three hostels near Warsaw every week. Over the past two years, hundreds of volunteers have joined this project, bringing respite, fun, education, and help to children. It is also a real form of support for mothers.

One of the volunteers, Marijke, describes the situation in these places: "The children have many developmental and behavioral problems. We rejoice in small victories: developing patience to finish an art project, playing a game without crying. We feel satisfied when we can give each child our attention. We watch as, step by step, their sense of security is rebuilt."

WAITING FOR PEACE

Time flies, and the needs are still enormous. We continue to pray for peace in Ukraine, for all those who have left their homes. For families to be reunited and for many people to rebuild their futures. For now, we will serve them for as long as necessary. Each of these projects contributes to the creation of vibrant communities where people discover hope by experiencing love and peace. The peace they need personally today is still needed in their homeland.