We all remember how the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Although some of those who crossed the border have returned to Ukraine or moved to other countries, government statistics show that 1.7 million Ukrainians have applied for protection. The vast majority have remained in Poland, unsure if and when they will return to their homes and the family members they had to leave behind. Many of them have found jobs, and their children attend Polish schools.
MATERIAL NEEDS
Time passes, yet 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 remain very evident, as seen every week when we invite nearly one 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 insufficient to cover even the most basic living expenses in the EU, let alone more complex medical needs.
COMMUNITY OF HOPE
As always, the most pressing needs we see are the psychological, social, and spiritual struggles of those who have been tragically affected by the events of the past two years. Many people who are searching for a place to belong have found a welcoming space at the House of Cultures, established by OM for people of all nationalities in Warsaw. They come there to participate in various programs—classes, meetings, and courses. It is not only a safe and welcoming space to meet others in similar situations, but also an opportunity to learn and develop skills such as languages, fitness, art, and dance, as well as to participate in support groups, prayer, and discussion. This diversity of activities fosters 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 one another and offer each other advice. One of the women admitted how grateful she is that I openly encourage her to trust in God. If it weren’t for that, she couldn’t imagine how she would be able to carry on, given the circumstances she finds herself in. Another woman confessed that these meetings help her find respite and comfort in the middle of the week, when she feels very overwhelmed at work and misunderstood by others.”
The psychological toll of war affects people of all ages. To address the needs of the youngest children and their caregivers, we have launched the OpSAFE program, which provides children with psychological first aid and support after experiencing trauma. We run five-day day camps filled with fun and stories, all conveying the message that every child is valuable, that no child is destined to be alone, and that with the help of trustworthy adults, they can rebuild their future in a safe environment. We have trained and prepared hundreds of volunteers, making this form of assistance available to over 3,000 children throughout Poland. The program’s message has had a profound impact on their lives.
PROTECTION OF THE VULNERABLE
We also continue to work in the areas 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 deliver humanitarian aid shipments to Ukraine (totaling over 300 metric tons so far); and we are developing a comprehensive program for teenagers focused on their educational and emotional needs, as well as evangelism.
THE CITY ON THE MOUNTAIN
Since the start of the war, churches in Poland have played a vital role in meeting the rapidly growing needs of refugees arriving from across the eastern border. In Kutno, a church led by members of OM has grown through its relief efforts, which led to the formation of a separate Ukrainian congregation that operates alongside the Polish congregation. It all began with the establishment of a shelter in the church building and providing support to new arrivals with their practical needs. Currently, the team at this location focuses on building lasting relationships and fostering community life, sharing hope and continuing to provide multifaceted assistance to those in need.
LOVE THAT LASTS
When Ukrainians began fleeing westward, our teams began working at the border almost immediately. Volunteers from around the world joined us for a few days, weeks, or months. When the influx of refugees slowed somewhat, these teams continued their work at shelters 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 assistance to the children. It also provides tangible support for the mothers.
One of the volunteers, Marijke, describes the situation in these places: “The children have many developmental and behavioral issues. We celebrate the small victories: learning to be patient enough to finish an art project, or playing a game without crying. We feel fulfilled when we can give each child our full attention. We watch as, step by step, their sense of security is restored.”
WAITING FOR PEACE
Time is passing quickly, and the needs remain immense. We continue to pray for peace in Ukraine and for all those who have left their homes. We pray for families to be reunited and for a future to be rebuilt for so many people. In the meantime, we will continue to 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 personally need today is just as essential in their homeland.
