By Hsiu-Lien Chu, Anastasiia, Shu-Wei Chen | Poland 

Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, countless Ukrainians have faced the trauma of displacement. Many found refuge in Poland, where communities and organizations like the Tzu Chi Foundation have extended compassion and support. Through Tzu Chi’s assistance programs, Ukrainian refugees, especially the elderly and those with disabilities, are receiving the help they need to rebuild their lives. 

Anastasiia Kulyk, a Ukrainian now working in Lublin, Poland, has become a beacon of support for her fellow refugees. Having once been a student in Poland, she stayed on after graduation, managing a nail salon and dedicating her time to volunteer work. When Tzu Chi’s Germany-based volunteer Shu-Wei Chen arrived to help coordinate aid, Anastasiia eagerly joined the cause. Her collaboration with Tzu Chi and local Catholic charities in Lublin has been pivotal, especially in organizing material aid for elderly Ukrainians. 

In July, Anastasiia and the volunteer team distributed 261 cash cards, valid at local Biedronka supermarkets, to elderly refugees. "These cards are crucial," Anastasiia explained, "helping to ease their financial strain and ensuring their nutritional needs are met." The young volunteers she leads work tirelessly, demonstrating the commitment of the next generation to the welfare of those in need. 

Even with language differences, Taiwanese student Ellie Chen has become a comforting presence among the elderly refugees. Her kindness and calm demeanor leave a lasting impact, often moving recipients to offer warm hugs and sincere blessings in gratitude. These moments reflect the mutual respect and care that Tzu Chi volunteers and the refugees share as they navigate these challenging times together. 

Supporting Seniors Through Every Challenge 

For each aid distribution, the team carefully verifies eligibility to ensure fairness and efficiency. Refugees receiving the cards can use them to purchase essential items from any Biedronka store, excluding tobacco and alcohol. In these interactions, the refugees often express deep appreciation, understanding how essential this aid is to their daily lives. Many capture these moments through photos, cherishing the presence of volunteers who bring them comfort and hope. 

However, the journey is not without challenges. Recent legal changes have made it harder for some refugees to stay in Poland’s major cities. Many have lost their housing, despite battling health issues like cancer. Volunteers work diligently to provide information, support, and comfort, offering guidance during an uncertain time. "We stand by them, offering compassion and support to ease their worries," Anastasiia said. 

A Community of Generosity 

Despite their own hardships, the elderly refugees have embodied the Tzu Chi spirit, demonstrating generosity and resilience. Some even contribute donations, helping to sustain a tradition of kindness that strengthens the community. "Their generosity inspires us all," Anastasiia shared. "It shows that even those in need can still give back." 

One such example is Natalia Butko, who lives in Chelm near the Ukrainian border. Natalia, a remarkable grandmother, took on the role of raising her grandchildren, Konstantin and Sofia, after their mother left them. Despite limited resources, Natalia supports Ukrainian soldiers by knitting warm clothing from secondhand materials. Her story exemplifies the strength and dedication of those striving to rebuild their lives while helping others. 

In November 2023, Tzu Chi provided three hearing aids to a Ukrainian family with hearing impairments. For Ani and her two daughters, Julianna and Polina, hearing aids have transformed daily life, opening new experiences and connections. The girls have adapted quickly to Polish life, making friends and thriving in school. They recently received bicycles from Father Gregorz, their teacher from a school for the deaf, giving them new freedom to explore their surroundings. 

Ani’s husband found work as a taxi driver in Lublin, while Ani stays home to care for their daughters. They attend weekly services at a church for the deaf in Warsaw, where they’ve found a supportive community. Although they hope to move to Warsaw, where more specialized services are available, the family is currently unable to afford the high rental costs. Despite the challenges, Ani expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received: "Everyone’s kindness has helped us feel at home." 

Language Learning: Key to Integration 

 Learning Polish is a crucial step for refugees like Natalia Khlynova, a former tour guide from Ukraine. Forced to leave her husband behind due to his military duties, Natalia found a new purpose by enrolling in Tzu Chi’s Polish language courses. With newfound confidence, she’s begun working as a tour guide again, bringing history to life for others in her adopted city. Recently certified as an official guide, Natalia led her first Polish-speaking tour this summer, marking a milestone in her journey. 

Her story is one of many. The language courses, funded by Tzu Chi, have empowered refugees to navigate daily life, access services, and build meaningful connections within their communities. "Language unlocks opportunities and fosters a brighter future," said Anastasiia, who has witnessed firsthand how language skills open doors for refugees eager to give back to society. 

With growing confidence in their Polish skills, some refugees have also enrolled in skill-building workshops. This past July, many joined a nail art course, gaining practical experience and connecting with Polish professionals. For the women involved, the class offered more than just a new skill; it provided a space to bond, share stories, and envision a brighter future. 

Anastasiia is thrilled to see these refugees embracing their new lives with courage and determination. "Thanks to Tzu Chi, they’re not just surviving—they’re thriving," she shared. "Together, we’re planting seeds of hope and compassion that will blossom into a beautiful future."