Collection for renovation of social housing for Helena

What are we collecting for?

For a major renovation of a vacant building that is to become a new home for Helena.

Why is this important?

If we don’t help, Helena will become a homeless person.

Helena’s situation:

Helena is 74 years old. She lived alone in a house in Kantorowice, which was completely devastated by the September flood. The cottage is in terrible condition and cannot be renovated. In addition, Helena does not own it (complicated inheritance situation), which rules out any state aid.

She has lost everything―the house, everyday items, family heirlooms. Everything she had painstakingly built throughout her life was destroyed. Imagine losing the roof over your head and everything that is important to you overnight. 

For the time being, Helena has found temporary shelter with her family, but only until the end of December 2024. Time is running out. 

Her daughter, Kasia, miraculously won the right to a social vacant apartment in Lewin Brzeski. Unfortunately, the apartment requires a major overhaul. Basic things are missing―from heating to sanitary installations. Without our help, Helena will have nowhere to live. 

What has already been done?

• Thanks to the support of Caritas, a cooker was acquired.
• Volunteers tore up the floors, stripped the plaster, and placed drywall.
• An electrician installed a new electrical system.
• Heating is being installed. 

The cost of the overall renovation is about 60 thousand zlotys―an amount that neither Helena nor Kasia can afford.

Who is Helena?

Helena is a warm, cheerful person. Although the tragedy that befell her has had a strong impact on her psyche, she still tries to be full of life. She has a lovely white dog with whom she rides a bike. She deserves a safe home where she can spend peaceful years.

Who are Kasia and Marcin?

Kasia and Marcin are young people who live in the Netherlands, where they are fighting for a decent life. Despite their own problems, they returned to Poland during the flood to help others. Kasia used to work in social care, and helping others is part of her nature. These are people who deserve our respect and support.

Why help?

We can’t change the whole world, but we can change the world of one person. Let’s help Helena regain a sense of security and a place she can call home again.

On behalf of Helena, Kasia and Marcin, I ask for your support. Every zloty matters. Together we can accomplish something great!