As the conflict in Ukraine marks its third anniversary, the humanitarian crisis continues to devastate the nation, deeply affecting its people and communities. Many Ukrainians face unimaginable hardships, struggling to meet basic needs like food and medication, while also carrying the weight of trauma and isolation. In response to these dire circumstances, the Daughters of Charity Sisters have been unwavering in their support, offering crucial services to those displaced and affected by the conflict. Their comprehensive approach provides immediate relief, including medical care, food, clothing, and childcare, while also fostering long-term resilience through education, psychological care, and community-building efforts. The Sisters’ presence continues to be a beacon of hope, helping to restore dignity, promote well-being, and alleviate suffering in these challenging times.

Daughters of Charity International Project Services (DC IPS) is committed to funding Daughters of Charity ministries and service-projects which serve those most in need. After three years, the Sisters in Ukraine continue to provide critical support amidst the ongoing conflict. They address urgent needs including medical care, food, clothing, childcare, and emotional and spiritual assistance for vulnerable groups of children, fragile elderly, and displaced families. Their services also focus on long-term resilience, offering rehabilitation, educational support, and community-building initiatives. Through their efforts, they help restore dignity, alleviate suffering, and strengthen the social fabric of their communities.

Testimony:

“In Smotrych, Ukraine, refugees were mainly from the east of Ukraine, where the situation was worst. Before the war, the Sisters served in Mariupol. People from that city contacted the Sisters and, fleeing, went to Smotrych. There they stayed or travelled further abroad. The Sisters gave them the things they needed. When they did not have a destination for their escape, the Sisters offered them to come to the Sisters' home in Poland. In Poland, the local authorities knew that we welcomed refugees at our home and directed them to us.

Initially, we provided refugees with the basic necessities: food, clothing (they were fleeing in winter clothes and it was already beginning to spring in Poland), hygiene items, medicines, blankets, etc. We helped them to legalize their stay in Poland, enroll their children at schools, teach them the Polish language, and later we also looked for accommodation and work for them. Some decided to return to Ukraine, so we looked for transport for them and gave them basic things, knowing that it would be difficult for them in Ukraine.

All refugees who have been with us and decided to stay longer have managed to find work – simple jobs that do not require a good command of the Polish language. Simple work unfortunately means low salary. Prices in Poland have risen a lot recently. So we are still in contact with all refugees and continue to support them.”