More than 4.5 million people have crossed into Poland since February 2022. Many of those arriving over the border did not have time to gather identity documents or other valuables. Most are women and children which puts them at even higher risk of exploitation, crime and trafficking.

These women did not want to flee their husbands and homes, however war displaced them. Their overriding desire, to be reunited with loved ones and to rebuild their country. Obviously, this is not possible until stability returns to the Ukraine.

Safe and Free are aware of many stories of women and children being offered help by unscrupulous individuals who seek to exploit their vulnerability, a common experience for people with such vulnerabilities.

Safe and Free believe the best way to help and protect these women and children from being exploited by traffickers, is to partner with trusted refugee facilities close to the Ukraine where they can build temporary communities to support them through this crisis time.

The refugee projects that we are supporting provide round-the-clock psychological support, food, shelter, clothes and even help finding jobs during their stay in Poland.

Safe and Free have partnered with KDM (Krakow) a faith based charity which has committed to housing one thousand refugees for the duration of the war. Supporting these women and children until they are able to return to their loved ones. KDM has 6 refugee facilities of various sizes close to Krakow. Each has developed into a self sufficient community, utilising the talents within the group to help bring a sense of normality to people whose lives are in turmoil.

The Polish business community has responded positively to this huge challenge.

The Scandinavia, Zator Poland, a quirky holiday resort, converted shipping containers into modern living spaces. This business opened its doors to refugees fleeing the war. Their entertainment hall is now used as a community centre where refugees can go for food, refreshments, take part in activities and classes. The office is now set up as a free shop where refugees can go and take anything they may need from clothes, food, toys and other essential items.