Amid Ukraine conflict's second anniversary, nations rally: Aid reduces crisis and sparks hope

The Ukrainian people are still in desperate need of support, which is provided by organizations like the Polish Humanitarian Action. The PAH has been operating in Ukraine for a decade now. The organization currently employs several hundred people in the country.

"In the initial days following February 24, we organized cross-border transports of food and hygiene products. Progressively, we extended our operations to different areas. Thanks to Poland's solidarity, we were able to establish several Psychosocial Support Centers where people can also access financial or legal aid," states Helena Krajewska.

"Most recently, we have also initiated a project focused on agriculture and the dairy sector. We assist with rebuilding and renovating houses, and we also finance community care workers for the elderly," she continues.

Among those who have benefitted from PAH's assistance includes the mother of Vitaliy from the village of Rusaniw, Chernihiv region.

"My mother's house was totally destroyed and nothing could be salvaged; it was located directly on the frontline. There were soldiers all around and ammunition and rockets were flying everywhere. They were situated very close and stayed through the entire winter," reflects Vitaliy.

Vitaliy adds that his mother was forced to flee as soon as the conflict began. "She was left homeless. At present, she's hospitalised. The war has put us through a lot. She's filled with fear. We're all terrified. We're uncertain about what lies ahead. There are constant explosions," he emphasizes.

PAH constructed a modular home for Vitaliy's mother. "She'll be warm in it. This is crucial for the elderly and infirm. Now with this house, we're finding it easier to look ahead to the winter. I strive to stay optimistic regardless of the war. We have to keep living and I find joy in the small things," concludes Vitaliy.

Another Ukrainian resident who received assistance from PAH is Olga Ezau. She lives with her husband in Red Valley in the Mykolayiv region.

"Despite her house being intact and not having to leave her village, Olga took care of 15 neighboring farms and homes whose occupants fled due to continuous shelling. She selflessly fed their cows, chickens, and horses despite her challenging financial circumstances," the PAH spokesperson explains to o2.pl.

PAH provided Olga not only with psychological support but also with firewood for the winter. Power outages continue to plague her village, making firewood crucial for heating the house, cooking, and warming up water.

Although the number of individuals in dire need of aid in Ukraine has somewhat fallen, the needs are still overwhelming. "In the past few weeks, many citizens have returned home to Ukraine. This has led to additional needs as we must aid them in rebuilding their former lives, businesses, homes, and farms. Children and teenagers also require extensive psychological support due to their traumatic experiences. PAH is addressing each of these needs," explains Helena Krajewska.

The following websites provide more information to the Poles who are interested in donating financially to support Ukrainians: https://www.pah.org.pl/centrum-info-ua/ and https://www.siepomaga.pl/pah-ukraina