From September 2 to 7, 2024, the director of CADIS, Fr. Aris Miranda, MI, conducted a monitoring visit in Poland to evaluate the phase 3 programs of the post-emergency project funded by the Buddhist Tzu Chi Charity Foundation (BTCCF). The project will conclude in December 2024.
Two and a half years after the Russian invasion that forced millions of Ukrainians to flee, the efforts of the Camillians in Poland and CADIS International continue without hesitation. The goal of this project is to help beneficiaries achieve maximum autonomy and self-sufficiency so they can start a new life in Poland.
Compared to the last quarter, there have not been major changes in the Ursus and Łomianki programs, where 65 refugees have been hosted since July 2024, including 43 new arrivals from February to July.
Łomianki
Two new families arrived between March and May. One of the mothers was diagnosed with stage four cancer. Originally from Ternopil, she is accompanied by her 10-year-old daughter and her husband. She came to Poland mainly for medical reasons (therapy), which she could not obtain in Ukraine. For this reason, her husband was able to join her. She is doing well and is starting to look for a job as an English language translator.
Among the issues discussed during the meeting with the project staff is the future of the Camillian facility in Łomianki, which is currently permanent accommodation for Ukrainian refugees until the end of this year. There is no certainty about maintaining this facility in 2025, as the Polish government has announced it will stop providing financial support to Ukrainian refugees by September 2025. However, the refugees are well informed that this project will end in December 2024. They are prepared for that day.
During the visit, one of the project beneficiaries, Anya, who arrived in Łomianki in July 2022, was interviewed by Fr. Aris with the help of Erina as translator. Anya is an example of hope and success as a refugee in Poland. Thanks to the help of the Camillians, she found a job in a hospital as a nursing assistant. At the same time, she obtained recognition of her profession as a midwife from the Ministry of Health. She is currently studying to become a professional nurse, as she has been offered job opportunities. She is learning Polish, continues to study, works regularly in the hospital, and takes care of her two daughters. She is determined to finish her studies in Poland to grow and give a normal life to her two little girls.
Ursus
All refugee beneficiaries of the programs have found employment or started a small business of their own using the technical skills acquired, which are continuously improved at Harna, the coworking space. Most of them have lived in the training apartments and their children are enrolled in nearby schools. They have attended Polish language sessions and participated in other training courses and workshops.
The Camillian Mission for Social Assistance continues to run an information point at Warsaw West station, which receives about 2,000 - 3,000 newly arrived refugees per month. Coordinators and volunteers provide information, referrals, and material support. In addition, there is a center in Ursus where new arrivals and other refugees, who do not stay in our shelters, receive technical, legal, and practical assistance. This support focuses in particular on advice on legal regulations in Poland, such as obtaining a residence card, social assistance benefits, additional benefits for children, and finding accommodation in various facilities in Poland.
The “Harna” coworking space has created job opportunities for many people, some of whom have started their own businesses. In particular, for many women, practicing a profession in the field of cosmetics and personal hygiene care was only possible thanks to the support of Harna. With the planned acquisition of a new location of similar size, but 50% cheaper than the current one, it will be possible to offer even greater support to refugees.
An evaluation of the Harna coworking project reveals many strengths and introduces new advantages that increase the value and impact of the project on the refugee community.
The future is also being planned in Ursus, as the end of this project approaches in December 2024. Several proposals are under discussion based on the most urgent needs of Ukrainian refugees already present in Poland or arriving, such as the provision of legal assistance.
CADIS and the Camillians in Poland are committed to continuing to provide support, shelter, and assistance to the hundreds of people still fleeing the war in Ukraine.
