In the heart of Warsaw, Poland, Good Centre opened it’s doors to respond to their Ukrainian neighbours fleeing conflict in the first days following the war.
Samaritan’s Purse Australian and New Zealanders have continued to support the food program called ‘Good Dinner’ – an initiative to provide hot-meals to assist people who would have otherwise gone without.
When Olga crossed the border to Poland, she arrived with one foot in a cast, a set of crutches under each arm. All that remained from her home in Ukraine was distilled in a backpack that accompanied her.
She is one of more than 80,000 people who have and continue to seek refuge and assistance from Good Centre, a church operated relief mission charity.
Since her arrival, Olga has been warmly received by Good Centre who have enabled her to begin the process of rebuilding her life in Poland. She had been able to access clothes, meals, pantry items, and assistance with government services.
“I visit this centre often because it is close to my heart. I feel warmth, kindness and understanding here”, shared Olga.
Radek who leads the efforts at Good Centre was able to visit Australia earlier in 2024, shared the importance of relationships, not only between neighbours, but also with God, in whom they draw their strength and hope.
“In the centre we now have a lot of activities, we opened the free shop for refugees with clothes, food, children’s corner, we’ve prepared ray of hope candles for Ukraine, we’ve prepared Polish language classes, we use not only regular books, but also the bible.
“Most important [we’re] not focused on product, but focused on [people’s] spirit, focused on relationships, relationships between people and a relationship with God. Because we help them, now they serve others”, shared Radek.
Tatiana, a mother of young children, also shared the hope that Good Centre provided her. She was able to access regular Polish language classes, while her children are able to access childcare, where they can enjoy the simplicity of childhood again.
“When I study the polish language, it’s a kind of relief for me. The girls look after my children at this time. To say that I a grateful is an understatement. This centre saved my life from depression.”
As we continue to support these efforts, we are grateful for your prayers and support which enabled us to come alongside partners like Good Centre in Poland. Your investment is paving a way towards a brighter future for thousands of Ukrainian people who are searching for hope after losing everything.
Your gift of $125 will help us relieve the suffering of weary refugees who are trying to start over and build a new life.
Your gift of $50 will provide physical relief and spiritual comfort to a family recovering from disaster.
Your $75 gift can feed a family in need for a month so that they might experience the hope we have through Christ.
*Names changed for security reasons.
