Dear Friends,

As you undoubtedly know, over the past few days, hundreds of thousands of refugees from Ukraine have been escaping the horrors of the Russian invasion by finding refuge in Poland. In response, the Polish Government and the Polish people have welcomed these refugees with open arms, giving them food, shelter, clothing, and a safe haven. As of today, over 1.2 million refugees have crossed into Poland and that number is expected to double or triple in just the next few weeks.

Many Polish families are taking refugees into their homes. The welcome which Poland has given the Ukrainian refugees has truly impressed the world!  At the same time, Poland's kindness will be a big strain on its resources, and more supplies and money will be needed to care for the refugees. For that reason, I am appealing to you to consider making a donation to aid the Polish charitable organizations leading the effort which have been specifically recommended by the Polish Ambassador to the U.S.:

You can make a contribution to these charitable organizations through the Polish Mission at Orchard Lake Schools, which has set up a special Ukrainian Relief Fund. All donations received by the Polish Mission – Ukrainian Relief Fund will be sent the six Polish charities listed above. You can make your donation at this link: Polish Mission – Ukrainian Relief Fund. Donations made to the Polish Mission – Ukrainian Relief Fund are tax-deductible charitable contributions.

Alternatively, you can mail a check payable to “Polish MIssion” (note “Ukrainian Relief Fund” in the memo line) and send to Polish Mission, 3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake, MI 48324.

Why has Poland been so generous and welcoming to these Ukrainian refugees and why has the Polish Government led the way in calling for sanctions against Russia? The answer is simple. We Poles understand, probably better than anyone, what it means to be attacked for no just cause by a neighboring power, especially Russia. And we Poles understand what it is like to have to fight and resist a belligerent invader – alone – as the invader tries to take our land, tries to destroy our culture, and tries to nullify our nation. Poland is now showing the world that, in contrast to its own tragic experiences, no nation should have to fight such evil aggression alone; if we do not stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, we might be the next victims.

Kind regards,

Richard A. Walawender

Honorary Consul

Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Detroit