What is happening with AIM’s refugee relief activities one and a half years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine? The last year has seen refugee care shift from crisis relief to longer-term projects, as very few new refugees are coming into Poland. Some Ukrainians have re- turned to their home country and found ways to restart their lives at home. Some refugees have moved to other countries with aims of settling there at least until their homeland is peaceful again. Those who remain in Poland either feel unsafe in Ukraine or have lost their homes and do not have the means to return.

We currently provide housing for 10-15 people, renting several apartments in town. As Ukrainians begin new lives in Poland, they need to learn Polish, and we have been able to work together with a local group of volunteer teachers to provide free Polish lessons. Meeting together, drinking tea, and making friends is also an important part of refugee care. The AIM team is all involved in this to varying degrees, as well as Agape Church. It is a rare Sunday now when none of our Ukrainian friends attend.

Beginning in August, I took over the role of Ukrainian refugee care from Mark and Janae Kauffman when they returned to the US. I am grateful for the generous donations that have allowed us to continue to care for Ukrainians fleeing war. It is a privilege to care for the “strangers and sojourners” who have become our new neighbors.