May 2022
Polish Constitution Day 2022
The Constitution of 3 May 1791 is considered to be one of the most important achievements in the history of Poland. It is the second oldest document of its type in the world, with the U.S. Constitution being the first. In modern Poland, this day is an official holiday, with many parades, exhibitions, concerts and speeches by public officials. These type of commemorative celebrations are also held in many cities across the United States which have significant Polish immigrant and Polish-American communities. This year, we proudly celebrate the 231st Anniversary. In these uncertain times, due to the over 3 million refugees from Ukraine who have been welcomes into the hearts and homes of average Polish citizens and supported by humanitarian organizations world-wide, the Polish nation and Poles world-wide have much to be proud of. The PACCF has shown our support of relief efforts in Poland by sending over $ 100,000 U.S. dollars to date to aid organizations in Poland that are assisting our sisters and brothers coming across the border...especially the children.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
To all the Mothers, Grandmothers, Godmothers, Stepmothers, Mothers-in-law, Aunts, Sisters, Cousins, Teachers, Friends, and all other women in our lives that cared for us and love us unconditionally.
Mother...
You filled my days with rainbow lights
Fairytales and sweet dream nights,
A kiss to wipe away my tears,
Gingerbread to ease my fears.
You gave the gift of life to me
And then in love, you set me free.
I thank you for your tender care,
For deep warm hugs and being there.
I hope that when you think of me
A part of you you'll always see.
- Author Unknown
Help for Ukraine
The Republic of Poland has opened its hearts and arms to welcome its brothers and sisters to give them refuge. To date, there are now over 3,000,000 displaced citizens from Ukraine in Poland. With the atrocities of the Russian army bombing schools, apartment buildings, hospitals, and towns, numerous numbers of Ukrainian civilians are being hurt or killed in the conflict. During the conflict, it is always the most vulnerable - who suffer the most.
Many towns, humanitarian organizations, and the government in Poland are taking care of those who are in need, but Poland is on the edge of a humanitarian crisis.
The Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation has stepped forward and during a Special Board Meeting, the decision was made to support Polish humanitarian organizations Polski Czerwony Krzyz and Towarzystwo Przyjaciół Dzieci w Przemyślu.
The Lublin Regional Branch of the Polish Red Cross has provided camp beds, mattresses, and sleeping bags, which will allow many of the Ukrainian citizens in need at border crossings in the Lublin region. The Subcarpathian Regional Branch of the Polish Red Cross in Rzeszów is also preparing to provide needed assistance to those in need.
One of the goals of the Polish Red Cross is to always prevent suffering and their mitigation in all circumstances while maintaining impartiality, without any discrimination. To achieve this goal, the Polish Red Cross promotes knowledge of international humanitarian law and cooperates with public authorities to ensure that it is respected. The role of the Polish Red Cross is exceptional. It is the only humanitarian organization in Poland, which disseminates knowledge about international humanitarian law, which is one of the basic duties performed jointly by employees and volunteers.
The Society of Children's Friends in Przemysl, has been helping children and families with disabilities in Poland for over 100 years. Located on the border, they are currently fundraising to assist children and families fleeing from Ukraine to Poland to provide a safe space and shelter. Their goal is to provide support and help to children, youth, and families who are escaping into Przemyśl.
Displaced Ukrainian citizens, especially children and women, have been migrating to Polish cities from the first hours of the conflict. At the main railway station in Przemyśl, a reception point has been organized to help people coming from Ukraine. Many Polish families are providing strollers, food, clothing, and necessities to make their Ukrainian brothers and sisters feel safe and welcome.
The Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation is doing its part as well by donating $100,000.00 to assist our brothers and sisters in Poland to continue this great humanitarian mission they have chosen.
Most importantly YOU can help as well.
Please see the links below.
It is the sincere hope of the Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation that this conflict in Ukraine comes to a peaceful end soon.
Donations may be sent to the PACCF with memo "Aid to Poland - Ukraine Crisis" or sent directly to either of the below organizations or others of your choosing. Every dollar/zlota counts!
