SOS Ukraine - assistance for the disabled

Amelia is a talented and resilient woman from Ukraine who, despite the challenges of displacement and disability, has found a meaningful role in her new community in Konin, Poland. You may remember her and her husband Vladimir from our previous reports in which we presented the story of their extraordinary love.

Amelia and Vladek began a new chapter of their lives with the support of our Foundation. They received essential material assistance, legal aid, shelter, and access to specialized support services. What is more, Amelia also spent several months gaining experience by working at a "day-care center" for Ukrainian children which, at that time, was held by PAY IT FORWARD Foundation. This comprehensive support system provided them with the stability and resources needed to rebuild their lives and look forward to a brighter future.

Thanks to this assistance, they were able to momentarily forget the horrors of the war in Ukraine and focus on rebuilding their lives in peace and safety. Despite leaving behind their families, friends, homes, and jobs, they found compassionate people in Poland whose unwavering support gave them the strength to dream again and turn those dreams into reality.

We encourage you to revisit the extraordinary and heartfelt love story of Amelia and Vladek. Are you curious about how Vladek describes the taste of their new life? Or where he and Amelia first met? Find the answers by clicking HERE.

But how’s Amelia’s these days?

Currently, Amelia is participating in a competitive three-month internship at the local municipal library, a program specifically designed for Ukrainian refugees. Out of numerous applicants, only ten were selected, highlighting the program's exclusivity. During her internship, Amelia conducts daily four-hour workshops for primary school children, where her artistic talents shine. Her sessions are known for their creativity and joy, making her a favorite among the children.

Beyond her scheduled workshops, Amelia actively engages in the library's cultural events, attending meetings with various intriguing individuals. Her dedication and enthusiasm are evident, as she approaches each day with a bright smile, despite the ongoing hardships her family faces due to the war in Ukraine.

A recent positive development in Amelia's life is that she and her husband, Vladimir, have secured a rental apartment in Konin. They are in the process of furnishing their new home, and Amelia is particularly excited about the opportunity to plant her favorite flowers on their balcony—a small but significant step towards creating a personal sanctuary.

However, Amelia's future employment remains uncertain. The internship program stipulates that participants should be offered at least part-time employment upon completion. Unfortunately, the library is unable to extend her contract due to budget constraints. This situation underscores the broader challenges Ukrainian refugees face in securing stable employment in host countries. While Poland has made significant efforts to integrate Ukrainian refugees into the labor market, including simplified work authorization processes , individual cases like Amelia's highlight the ongoing need for supportive employment opportunities.

Amelia's story is a testament to the resilience and contributions of Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Her dedication to her work and community, despite personal and professional uncertainties, exemplifies the strength and perseverance of many in similar situations.