Open Hearts&Doors - Housing for refugees

Background

February 24, 2022, is the day when the long-term peace and stabilization in Europe was seriously shaken. The outbreak of the war in Ukraine turned into a tragedy for millions of people. Many of them, especially women and children, had to run away from their homes in a hurry. This started the greatest refugee crisis in the world since WWII.

Hundreds of refugee families who fled to this region have found out that their homes have been destroyed from the war. We have already provided 100’s with temporary homes, but many need a long-term solution and support. We want to give Ukrainian refugees help to start over in a safe place.

Who we are

My name is Michał Włodarczyk, and I am a pastor of ICF Bydgoszcz Church. We’re an evangelical Church in Bydgoszcz (Poland). Since the first day of war, we have been heavily involved in helping refugees. We’ve collected people from the border, organized help for many families, we’ve been giving out food, clothes, and hygienic products every day. Thankfully, those who have found apartments or are living in our homes have been able to send their kids to schools and are finding and starting jobs. But many refugees still don’t have a place to live.

Our dream

We are working to procure a building that will allow for many refugees to have more than a temporary shelter, but one that would supply them with a safe place to begin again. This initial project will provide approximately 50 safe and decent places for long-term accommodation. This gives hope again to those who are in this extremely difficult situation, by providing them time to find jobs, acclimate into Polish life and look for their future home.