May 1, 2022 Update
Thanks to all of you, this project has so far raised $31,333.00. I am beyond grateful that this small project of mine has grown to be incredibly successful. With the number of donations I have received, we have been able to provide support to over twenty Ukrainians citizens currently living in Poland. In addition, I have allocated some of the donated money to Timur Aliev, a young Ukrainian who has been working with a team of men and women to deliver fresh food, water, clothing, and other supplies to the citizens living in and around Kharkiv, Ukraine. If you are following the news, you will know that Kharkiv is under constant bombing and shelling by the Russian army. Despite this fact, Timur and his team have continued to risk their lives to deliver these much needed supplies. In my communications with him, he asked if I wondered why the Ukrainians living in the area of Kharkiv don't simply leave. I told him that I assumed that this was because they did not want to leave their homes or their homeland. After all, to where would they go if all of their family is in Ukraine? He told me that there was much more to the story that I still did not understand. In fact, he said that many people are simply unable to leave. Many of the elderly are handicapped and unable to physically move well enough to leave, and a large number of the children are disabled and there is no way to to transport them to a safer place. Infrastructure is just not in place in and around Kharkiv. Just driving is difficult because you can be fired upon at a moment's notice. Even the team van was riddled with bullets on one of their deliveries. I cannot even begin to imagine what life must be like for these people, but I am well aware of the amazing work Timur and his team are doing.
On May 30th, I will be leaving the United States and flying to Poland. This will be a working vacation. I will spend a week in southern Poland and will visit Svieta, Pietia, Ilona, and Yasmina to check on them and their wellbeing and to let them know of our unwavering support for them. I also intend to spend a day or two volunteering with a local refugee organization. After this, I will travel north and west to Krotoszyn, Poland, where I will meet the Ukrainians being supported by my family. I hope to meet all of them at some point in the three weeks I will be in Krotoszyn. I want to assure them of our continuing prayerful and financial support. Although I do not speak Ukrainian, I am hoping that using my Polish language skills and the help of my friends from southern Poland, we will be able to communicate with Svieta, Pietia, Ilona, and Yasmina. When I arrive in Krotoszyn, I am hoping to take my cousin Karolina with me to help me communicate with the Ukrainians being supported by my family. It seems that Karolina is the one person who can best understand the Ukrainian language.
I look forward to the opportunity to travel and meet these Ukrainian women and children we have been supporting over these last three months. I ask you for your prayers and positive energy as I travel, especially for my safety. Of course I will continue to update this webpage in the next few weeks and also while I am in Poland. Below I have posted some photos of the good work Timur and his team are doing for those trapped in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Please continue your prayers and pass on this effort to all those you know. We are not finished yet. It is not time to stop. I especially thank those of you who have made repeat donations. You know who you are. I am grateful for your continued support. Please click on the photos below to enlarge them.
On May 30th, I will be leaving the United States and flying to Poland. This will be a working vacation. I will spend a week in southern Poland and will visit Svieta, Pietia, Ilona, and Yasmina to check on them and their wellbeing and to let them know of our unwavering support for them. I also intend to spend a day or two volunteering with a local refugee organization. After this, I will travel north and west to Krotoszyn, Poland, where I will meet the Ukrainians being supported by my family. I hope to meet all of them at some point in the three weeks I will be in Krotoszyn. I want to assure them of our continuing prayerful and financial support. Although I do not speak Ukrainian, I am hoping that using my Polish language skills and the help of my friends from southern Poland, we will be able to communicate with Svieta, Pietia, Ilona, and Yasmina. When I arrive in Krotoszyn, I am hoping to take my cousin Karolina with me to help me communicate with the Ukrainians being supported by my family. It seems that Karolina is the one person who can best understand the Ukrainian language.
I look forward to the opportunity to travel and meet these Ukrainian women and children we have been supporting over these last three months. I ask you for your prayers and positive energy as I travel, especially for my safety. Of course I will continue to update this webpage in the next few weeks and also while I am in Poland. Below I have posted some photos of the good work Timur and his team are doing for those trapped in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Please continue your prayers and pass on this effort to all those you know. We are not finished yet. It is not time to stop. I especially thank those of you who have made repeat donations. You know who you are. I am grateful for your continued support. Please click on the photos below to enlarge them.
April 30, 2022 Update
With the help of the donations I received and sent to Poland, the Ukrainian families were invited to an Easter gathering. Although most of us expect Easter to be a very happy occasion, for the Ukrainians it was a mixture of many emotions. For certain they were happy to feel a part of a family, but at the same time they longed for their husbands, sons, and fathers who are still in Ukraine. Nonetheless, it was a moment to give thanks for their safety and hold on to hope for the future of their country and families. I wanted to update you and thank you once again for your financial and prayerful support. Below are some photos of the Easter gathering.
Wesołego Alleluja! Happy Easter! Щасливого Великодня!
Happy Easter to All! With gratitude I give this update! Your generous donations are now being used to care for at least twenty-two Ukrainian women and children. With open arms, my cousin Kazimierz received two more women from Ukraine along with their daughters. One of the women has a doctorate in economics and is working in Kaziu's office. The other is a cosmetologist. I do not know these women's names or the names of their daughters, but I am sure I will receive them soon. This means that my cousin Kaziu and his family are now caring for at least eighteen refugees. This is enormous task, but he and his family are doing a really great job. You will never fully appreciate what your financial assistance means to these wonderful people.
It appears that all the Ukrainian women in Krotoszyn who were seeking employment have now found it. Three of the women have found work in the hospital as orderlies. Only the woman with the nine-year-old son and the woman of retirement age have chosen not to seek employment at this time. When I received this news, I was filled with profound joy. Employment is so difficult to find with so many refugees in Poland. Nonetheless, Kaziu, with the help of a lot of prayer, has managed to work some small miracles.
I would also like to inform you that my friend, Agata Polakowska, reached out to me to ask for further assistance. Recently, she was made aware of a young, Ukrainian mother and daughter who were in need of financial help. I, of course, agreed to lend our support. The mother, Ilona, was a teacher in Ukraine. She has a young daughter named Yasmina. Ilona has not been able to find meaningful work in her field, but she has been able to work part-time as a teacher's aide. Ilona now has a studio apartment in Gliwice and food and supplies to last for the next two weeks. I have transferred money to Ilona through Agata and will be transferring even more this week. For now, both Ilona and Yasmina are being well cared for with our help. Below you will find a photo of my friend Agata (left) along with Ilona and her daughter Yasmina. They are grateful for your financial support and have already sent their thanks.
It appears that all the Ukrainian women in Krotoszyn who were seeking employment have now found it. Three of the women have found work in the hospital as orderlies. Only the woman with the nine-year-old son and the woman of retirement age have chosen not to seek employment at this time. When I received this news, I was filled with profound joy. Employment is so difficult to find with so many refugees in Poland. Nonetheless, Kaziu, with the help of a lot of prayer, has managed to work some small miracles.
I would also like to inform you that my friend, Agata Polakowska, reached out to me to ask for further assistance. Recently, she was made aware of a young, Ukrainian mother and daughter who were in need of financial help. I, of course, agreed to lend our support. The mother, Ilona, was a teacher in Ukraine. She has a young daughter named Yasmina. Ilona has not been able to find meaningful work in her field, but she has been able to work part-time as a teacher's aide. Ilona now has a studio apartment in Gliwice and food and supplies to last for the next two weeks. I have transferred money to Ilona through Agata and will be transferring even more this week. For now, both Ilona and Yasmina are being well cared for with our help. Below you will find a photo of my friend Agata (left) along with Ilona and her daughter Yasmina. They are grateful for your financial support and have already sent their thanks.
Additionally, I would like to let you know that I was able to get some of what was collected directly into Ukraine. Through my cousin Aga, I heard about a young man, Timur Aliev, who is living in Kharkiv, Ukraine. He and some of his family and friends have taken it upon themselves to collect, store, and deliver fresh food and other provisions to those hiding in shelters and the elderly that are still in their homes in and around Kharkiv. He and his friends risk their lives daily to deliver this food. It is a struggle because they often find themselves in the midst of bombing and shelling by the Russians and have to wait for just the right time to continue. Nonetheless, they will not give up and are asking for donations for gas, the vehicle, the food, and the provisions that he and his friends are delivering. Below are some photos of the courageous work he is doing. Click on the photo to enlarge.
I would once again like to offer a special thank you to Saint John's Episcopal Church, Grand Haven. On Palm Sunday, I had the privilege of attending Meditations on the Passion of Christ In Solidarity with Ukraine, a beautiful presentation of music, poetry, and readings. It was a prayerful experience for all in attendance and was watched by my family and friends in Poland. I was able to offer my gratitude to all in attendance on behalf of the Ukrainian refugees. The Saint John's community has supported my project financially since the beginning of Lent. Father Jared Cramer took up a free-will collection during this program. Approximately $1,600.00 was donated by those in attendance. This money will be sent directly to the Ukrainian refugees in Gliwice and Krotoszyn, Poland, and to Timur Aliev who is helping those who are unable to leave Ukraine at this time. To Father Jared, the staff, and the parishioners of Saint John's Episcopal Church Grand Haven, "Bóg Zapłać!" To watch the Meditations on the Passion of Christ in Solidarity with Ukraine, please click here.
April 2 Update on Ukrainian Mother (Svieta) and Son (Pietia)
I received some good news this week. Svieta was able to find work last Monday. The family with whom she and Pietia are temporarily staying are able to transport her to and from work on a daily basis. Pietia is in school and the same is true for him regarding his transportation to and from school. I am grateful for the family who is willing to provide this transportation. Some time in the coming week, it is expected that Svieta and Pietia will move in to their own apartment in Gliwice.
At this point, my friend Agata was able to raise 3,700 Polish złoty through donations from family and friends. This money has been deposited into Svieta's newly established bank account. The family with whom Svieta and Pietia are temporarily staying were able to get both of them registered for a social safeguard fund provided by the Polish government. This will enable them to receive 500 zloty ($120) monthly for Pietia's care and additional money for Svieta's salary. Whereas it is not a huge amount, it is another means of financial assistance for their survival.
At the moment, Svieta and Pietia have what they need. Of course they will need additional help in the coming months. A Polish host family with whom they were previously staying offered to buy Pietia a bike for his birthday. I am not sure when his birthday is, but I will ask Agata in my next communication. Agata and her family have also pledged to provide for the necessities in the new apartment. I have transferred money to Agata on behalf of all of you who have donated. The owner of the apartment agreed to provide the first month free and there is enough money to cover at least another month or two. After this, it is important that donations will continue to support them with their rental requirements.
I cannot thank all of you for your donations. You are making a difference in the world of this Ukrainian mother and son. And on behalf of Agata Polakowska and her family, thank you so much for your support. Please see the photo below. From left to right are Agata, Pietia, and Svieta.
At this point, my friend Agata was able to raise 3,700 Polish złoty through donations from family and friends. This money has been deposited into Svieta's newly established bank account. The family with whom Svieta and Pietia are temporarily staying were able to get both of them registered for a social safeguard fund provided by the Polish government. This will enable them to receive 500 zloty ($120) monthly for Pietia's care and additional money for Svieta's salary. Whereas it is not a huge amount, it is another means of financial assistance for their survival.
At the moment, Svieta and Pietia have what they need. Of course they will need additional help in the coming months. A Polish host family with whom they were previously staying offered to buy Pietia a bike for his birthday. I am not sure when his birthday is, but I will ask Agata in my next communication. Agata and her family have also pledged to provide for the necessities in the new apartment. I have transferred money to Agata on behalf of all of you who have donated. The owner of the apartment agreed to provide the first month free and there is enough money to cover at least another month or two. After this, it is important that donations will continue to support them with their rental requirements.
I cannot thank all of you for your donations. You are making a difference in the world of this Ukrainian mother and son. And on behalf of Agata Polakowska and her family, thank you so much for your support. Please see the photo below. From left to right are Agata, Pietia, and Svieta.
March 23 Update on Our Ukrainian Guests
and Additional Support
And then there were 12...and now...14! I have news. As of today, there are now twelve Ukrainian guests being cared for by my family in Krotoszyn. These wonderful Ukrainian women and children are settling in, but nothing can take away the sadness they are feeling for their fathers, husbands, and sons. Two of the women are now working in Krotoszyn and the school-age children are now enrolled in Krotoszyn schools. Now, I am able to share the names of our twelve Ukrainian guests. They are Karolina, Max, Natasza, Matwiej, Lena, Anastasiia, Zlata, Ludmila, Fiodor, Olga, Jarosława, and Irma. I am thankful for Kaziu's willingness to share their first names with us. Again, we must protect the families of these women and children who were forced to stay in Ukraine. Therefore, we will not provide surnames at this time. I am certain that all of you can understand the necessity of protecting these individuals.
I have also met through my friend, Kasia Warszyńska, a new friend named Agata Polakowska. Agata has arranged to care for a Ukrainian refugee, her son, and their dog Zoria (an Akita). The Ukrainian refugee's name is Svieta and her son's name is Pietia. Currently they are staying in the village of Tworóg, awaiting an apartment in Gliwice. Both Svieta and Pietia have obtained national identity cards and social security numbers. Pietia is currently enrolled in school, and Svieta is looking for employment. A developer in Gliwice is providing this family with an apartment, and the first month's rent will be paid for. Agata has arranged for clothing, personal care items, food, and water. She has also managed to raise some money from friends and family to help them get a start when their apartment is ready. I reached out to Agata on Monday and sent her the first of four donations. She is incredibly grateful and will be spending the day with Svieta and Pietia on Saturday and will let them know of our support. I will post an update after their meeting and hope to receive some photos.
With all of this said, I want to update you on the progress of my outreach. As of Wednesday, March 23, 2022, I have received $21,684.00 in donations. My heart continues to overflow with gratitude. If you donated and did not receive a thank you letter from me, it is probably because you did not include your name on the donation or your thank you letter is currently in the mail. Please reach out to me and let me know if you did not receive a thank you letter because I want to formally thank you for your support and provide you with updates.
$21, 684.00 is a lot of money, but we must keep things in perspective. We are helping to directly support 14 individuals. Therefore, I will not stop my outreach. Instead, I will work everyday to get the word out and continue to accept donations until I leave for Poland in May. Once again, I thank all of you for your incredibly generous donations and your prayers. You continue to make a difference in the lives of the refugees and in the lives of their Polish host families. God bless!
I have also met through my friend, Kasia Warszyńska, a new friend named Agata Polakowska. Agata has arranged to care for a Ukrainian refugee, her son, and their dog Zoria (an Akita). The Ukrainian refugee's name is Svieta and her son's name is Pietia. Currently they are staying in the village of Tworóg, awaiting an apartment in Gliwice. Both Svieta and Pietia have obtained national identity cards and social security numbers. Pietia is currently enrolled in school, and Svieta is looking for employment. A developer in Gliwice is providing this family with an apartment, and the first month's rent will be paid for. Agata has arranged for clothing, personal care items, food, and water. She has also managed to raise some money from friends and family to help them get a start when their apartment is ready. I reached out to Agata on Monday and sent her the first of four donations. She is incredibly grateful and will be spending the day with Svieta and Pietia on Saturday and will let them know of our support. I will post an update after their meeting and hope to receive some photos.
With all of this said, I want to update you on the progress of my outreach. As of Wednesday, March 23, 2022, I have received $21,684.00 in donations. My heart continues to overflow with gratitude. If you donated and did not receive a thank you letter from me, it is probably because you did not include your name on the donation or your thank you letter is currently in the mail. Please reach out to me and let me know if you did not receive a thank you letter because I want to formally thank you for your support and provide you with updates.
$21, 684.00 is a lot of money, but we must keep things in perspective. We are helping to directly support 14 individuals. Therefore, I will not stop my outreach. Instead, I will work everyday to get the word out and continue to accept donations until I leave for Poland in May. Once again, I thank all of you for your incredibly generous donations and your prayers. You continue to make a difference in the lives of the refugees and in the lives of their Polish host families. God bless!
March 19 Update on Refugees with Krotoszyn Family
Progress is being made every day with the Ukrainian refugees. Kaziu prefers to call the Ukrainian refugees, "Our Ukrainian Guests". And so from this point on, I will do the same. It is a kinder and gentler reference, and it expresses the deep love and concern that our Polish family has for those who have fled to safety in Poland. Kaziu and family have been able to secure national identification cards and social security numbers for all the guests. They are now recognized by the Polish government and can access all services and work legally if they find employment. This does not mean everything is free; it simply means that they now have access to doctors, employment, and schools. Again, employment is the challenge because there are now over 2 million Ukrainians who are in Poland, and jobs are lacking. In the last month Poland's population has increased by 5%. This is a huge jump and with it comes many challenges.
With joy, I received a photo of the Ukrainian guests staying with our family in Krotoszyn. I sought permission to post this photo because putting photos on social media could be an invasion of privacy, and I do not want to put the lives of the men left behind in Ukraine at an even greater risk. Directly below, you will see the guests, our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, that your donations are helping to support.
With joy, I received a photo of the Ukrainian guests staying with our family in Krotoszyn. I sought permission to post this photo because putting photos on social media could be an invasion of privacy, and I do not want to put the lives of the men left behind in Ukraine at an even greater risk. Directly below, you will see the guests, our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, that your donations are helping to support.
This week has been filled with great joy and gratitude for me and for my family in Poland. The generosity of those who donated to this effort has brought our total donations to $18,739.00. AND WE ARE NOT DONE! I will not quit because as more and more Ukrainian women, children, and elderly citizens arrive, the more help the host families in Poland will need.
I want to once again thank each and every one of you for your financial support.
I would like to mention several organizations, one social group, and several families in particular for assisting me in my outreach. First, I would like to thank the parishioners and rector (Father Jared Cramer) of St. John's Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, Michigan. Their efforts have led to at least $1,500.00 in donations. Second, I would like to thank the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters, Dominican Associates, and Dominican Sunday Assembly Members whose combined efforts have raised over $6,000.00 in donations. Third, I would like to thank the families of Nicholas Palmer, Bryan and Teresa Palmer, Doris and Michael Goetz, Rosa and Doug Palmer, and Joe Palmer for spreading the word to other family members and friends. Your efforts have have raised at least $4,400.00 in donations. Fourth, I want to thank all the members of the Kozal, Mikrut, and Casey families and their friends for their support, which has led to approximately $4,000.00 in donations. Fifth, I want to thank "The Misfit Toys" and their associated friends for just over $1200.00 in donations. And finally, donations have come from friends of friends, tellers at Lake Michigan Credit Union (Acts of Kindness donors), and anonymous donors.
To ALL of you, I say thank you, dziękuję bardzo, merci beaucoup, grazie, and danke schön!
I want to once again thank each and every one of you for your financial support.
I would like to mention several organizations, one social group, and several families in particular for assisting me in my outreach. First, I would like to thank the parishioners and rector (Father Jared Cramer) of St. John's Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, Michigan. Their efforts have led to at least $1,500.00 in donations. Second, I would like to thank the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters, Dominican Associates, and Dominican Sunday Assembly Members whose combined efforts have raised over $6,000.00 in donations. Third, I would like to thank the families of Nicholas Palmer, Bryan and Teresa Palmer, Doris and Michael Goetz, Rosa and Doug Palmer, and Joe Palmer for spreading the word to other family members and friends. Your efforts have have raised at least $4,400.00 in donations. Fourth, I want to thank all the members of the Kozal, Mikrut, and Casey families and their friends for their support, which has led to approximately $4,000.00 in donations. Fifth, I want to thank "The Misfit Toys" and their associated friends for just over $1200.00 in donations. And finally, donations have come from friends of friends, tellers at Lake Michigan Credit Union (Acts of Kindness donors), and anonymous donors.
To ALL of you, I say thank you, dziękuję bardzo, merci beaucoup, grazie, and danke schön!
March 16 Update on Refugees with Krotoszyn Family
I must thank so many of you for your overwhelming response to my project. Your empathy and support has been overwhelming. Although I had a partial "Spring Break" last week, I worked over forty-eight hours collecting, processing, and recording donations. As each LMCU deposit, check, and Venmo/PayPal donation was received, my heart was overflowing with gratitude and my eyes flowing with tears. I don't even have the words for a proper thank you, yet I will say it over and over again - "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" To date, your generosity has produced about $16,000 in donations. About one-third of those donations have already been received, and more will be sent each week.
Kaziu and his family send "a million thanks to all the donors". The Ukrainian women and children are settling in, but there is still great sadness as the women and children miss their husbands, sons, and fathers. Kaziu and his family are doing everything they can to improve the mood of the women and children, but you can imagine that this is not an easy task. On Monday, the youngest boy, Fyodor, fell ill. Kaziu took him to the doctor because the refugees do not speak Polish. He is doing okay for the moment. Because of the inability of the refugees to speak Polish, they encounter daily challenges. The apartment kitchens have now been supplied with electrical appliances. Each of the women were given 200 zloty to purchase their own food. Kaziu writes that he and his family speak and interact with them daily and are taking care of them to the best of their ability. The most important concern for Kaziu is that all of them remain healthy.
Kaziu was able to get all the children identification cards and enroll them in Polish schools. They are currently attending in the afternoon, but again this will not be easy as the children do not speak Polish. Nonetheless, the schools are working hard to make the transition possible. The biggest difficulty at the moment is to find work for the Ukrainian women. With 1,860,000 Ukrainian women and children now in Poland, Kaziu's efforts to get employment for them has been unsuccessful. Prayers for something to open up are truly appreciated. Until then, he and his family will continue providing for them with the help of your donations.
Once again, Kaziu, Marlena, their children, their siblings, and their mother Maria, thank each and every one of you for your generosity. And as always, they appreciate your prayers and positive energy. God bless all of you.
Kaziu and his family send "a million thanks to all the donors". The Ukrainian women and children are settling in, but there is still great sadness as the women and children miss their husbands, sons, and fathers. Kaziu and his family are doing everything they can to improve the mood of the women and children, but you can imagine that this is not an easy task. On Monday, the youngest boy, Fyodor, fell ill. Kaziu took him to the doctor because the refugees do not speak Polish. He is doing okay for the moment. Because of the inability of the refugees to speak Polish, they encounter daily challenges. The apartment kitchens have now been supplied with electrical appliances. Each of the women were given 200 zloty to purchase their own food. Kaziu writes that he and his family speak and interact with them daily and are taking care of them to the best of their ability. The most important concern for Kaziu is that all of them remain healthy.
Kaziu was able to get all the children identification cards and enroll them in Polish schools. They are currently attending in the afternoon, but again this will not be easy as the children do not speak Polish. Nonetheless, the schools are working hard to make the transition possible. The biggest difficulty at the moment is to find work for the Ukrainian women. With 1,860,000 Ukrainian women and children now in Poland, Kaziu's efforts to get employment for them has been unsuccessful. Prayers for something to open up are truly appreciated. Until then, he and his family will continue providing for them with the help of your donations.
Once again, Kaziu, Marlena, their children, their siblings, and their mother Maria, thank each and every one of you for your generosity. And as always, they appreciate your prayers and positive energy. God bless all of you.
March 10, 2022 Update on the City of Krotoszyn's Effort to Provide Refugee Relief
I have a unique affection for the city of Krotoszyn. Not only is Krotoszyn the county seat for the village from which my ancestors came, it is also the current home of many of my family members. This is a city, rich in history, and filled with truly wonderful citizens. On March 5th, the citizens of Krotoszyn went to the square and did their part to collect for the war refugees from Ukraine. They did so in simple, yet unique fashion. From food sales, to coffee sales, to Polish folk-dancers, these people know all too well the plight of their Ukrainian brothers and sisters. When I read about their efforts, I felt a sense of pride in their efforts and my heart was once again filled with gratitude. I wanted to share with you some photos of the event. When we all work together, true change happens.
To view a short video showing the city of Krotoszyn from drone camera, click here.
March 9, 2022 Update
This morning a Ukrainian grandmother and her granddaughter arrived to Kazimierz's home. So far all is going as planned. All eleven Ukrainian refugees are now safely in the apartments and receiving love and care from their Polish hosts. This is a difficult situation because only two days have passed since the first nine refugees arrived and only today the grandma and granddaughter arrived. There is lot of adjusting to do. As you can imagine, the women and children are feeling some relief that they are safe, but the sadness they feel overwhelms their days. Tears are being shed for the husbands, fathers, and family members that are still in Ukraine. Their Polish hosts are giving them time to adjust and rest and are respecting their privacy. This is a very fragile time for them. If the women and children need any help whatsoever, Kazimierz and his entire family are there to provide for their needs. Communication between the refugees and their Polish hosts is not easy because they do not speak Ukrainian. Nonetheless, there are some similarities between the Polish and Ukrainian languages and this helps. Thankfully, there is another Ukrainian couple living nearby who have been in Krotoszyn for a number of years, and they are helping translate as well.
I want to thank the over fifty donors who have reached out to me in the last seventy-two hours to help support these refugees and their Polish hosts. Your love, prayers, and generous donations make my spirit overflow with gratitude. Kazimierz also thanks you for your generous support. You are making a difference.
I will continue to update you as much as I am able. Because there are now over 1.3 million refugees in Poland and efforts are being made all around the country, change is happening rapidly and information comes when it comes. I appreciate your patience and ask you to continue to spread the message about my ministry and our financial support to the Ukrainian refugees and their Polish hosts. God bless all of you!
I want to thank the over fifty donors who have reached out to me in the last seventy-two hours to help support these refugees and their Polish hosts. Your love, prayers, and generous donations make my spirit overflow with gratitude. Kazimierz also thanks you for your generous support. You are making a difference.
I will continue to update you as much as I am able. Because there are now over 1.3 million refugees in Poland and efforts are being made all around the country, change is happening rapidly and information comes when it comes. I appreciate your patience and ask you to continue to spread the message about my ministry and our financial support to the Ukrainian refugees and their Polish hosts. God bless all of you!
March 7, 2022 Update
At 11:07 AM EST on March 7, 2022, I received a message from my family members living in the town of Krotoszyn in west-central Poland. Ciocia Maria, her sons Kazimierz and Piotr, and her daughter Agnieszka have taken in nine refugees, who just arrived. There are five females, one elderly and four younger. There are four children: one 9-month-old boy, one 3-year-old boy, one 10-year-old girl, and one 15-year-old boy. They have arrived with nothing. Kazimierz and his wife Marlena have provided two apartments in their building furnished with beds, pillows, blankets, food, and water. Maria, Piotr, and Aga have provided towels, blankets, clothes, and of course food and drink. My family is in need of financial assistance because they are expecting two more refugees, a grandmother and her grandchild, who will live directly with Kazimierz and his wife due to lack of space. It is not known if the grandchild is male or female. I will update this post as soon as the next two refugees arrive. I have already sent the first donation directly to Kazimierz, and it was received without problem. I would be grateful if we agree to direct all money donated to the Blessed Bishop Kozal Fund at LMCU go directly to those caring for refugees. If you would like to donate, please contact me at kozalj@gmail.com
Ukrainian Women, Children, and Elderly Flee to Poland
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As of 11:00 AM EST on March 7, 2022, more than one million refugees from Ukraine have entered Poland, fleeing from Russian bombs and the indiscriminate killing of civilians. Poland is slightly larger than the state of Michigan, and this is a true humanitarian crisis. I have been in daily contact with my family and friends in Poland. I have asked what we can do to help end Russian aggression and the war in Ukraine, and how to reach out to the tens of thousands of refugees arriving in Poland daily. With their help, I have developed a comprehensive plan in which all people can participate. Part of this plan is to boycott Russian companies to put economic pressure on Russia, and part of the plan is to donate to vetted Polish and Ukrainian humanitarian organizations and Polish host families who are directly helping the Ukrainian refugees. Although a majority of the vetted links below are in Polish, some are also in English and you can donate directly if you are comfortable.
In case donating via the Internet is uncomfortable for you, I have also established an account at Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) with a share under the title Blessed Bishop Kozal Fund in honor of my cousin Blessed Bishop Michał Kozal, who was murdered in Dachau during World War II. If you would like the account information, I will share the account number via email. My email address is kozalj@gmail.com. I am also accepting donations through Venmo, PayPal, and Revolut. If you would like information on these methods, please use the email above. Once you receive the account information for the Blessed Bishop Kozal Fund from me via e-mail, you can either stop at a local LMCU branch office and make a donation or make a member to member transfer through LMCU's online banking system. Be sure to have the teller include your name on the donation or put your name on the donation in the comments section in the LMCU online banking system. After your donation has been made, I will then send the money directly to an organization or host family of your choice through via bank transfer or PayPal. Because your donations are going directly to the refugees through their host families, please understand that your donations are NOT tax deductible. |
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Boycott all companies associated with the following Russian companies.
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School-Related Volunteer Mobilization Efforts
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Humanitarian Aid
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Defensive Equipment for Ukraine
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Responses Due to Boycotts
Shell will exit partnerships with Gazprom and end its involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipelineFrom CNN's Chris Liakos
Shell said on Monday it plans to exit its equity partnerships with Russian state energy giant Gazprom in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
According to a statement, Shell intends to exit its joint ventures with Gazprom and related entities, including its 27.5% stake in the Sakhalin-II liquefied natural gas facility, its 50% stake in the Salym Petroleum Development and the Gydan energy venture. The company will also end its involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, the statement added.
“We are shocked by the loss of life in Ukraine, which we deplore, resulting from a senseless act of military aggression which threatens European security,” said Shell’s chief executive officer, Ben van Beurden.“Our decision to exit is one we take with conviction,” he said adding that “We cannot — and we will not — stand by. Our immediate focus is the safety of our people in Ukraine and supporting our people in Russia. In discussion with governments around the world, we will also work through the detailed business implications, including the importance of secure energy supplies to Europe and other markets, in compliance with relevant sanctions.”
At the end of 2021, Shell had around $3 billion in non-current assets in these ventures in Russia, according to the company.
“We expect that the decision to start the process of exiting joint ventures with Gazprom and related entities will impact the book value of Shell’s Russia assets and lead to impairments,” said Shell in the statement.
Shell said on Monday it plans to exit its equity partnerships with Russian state energy giant Gazprom in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
According to a statement, Shell intends to exit its joint ventures with Gazprom and related entities, including its 27.5% stake in the Sakhalin-II liquefied natural gas facility, its 50% stake in the Salym Petroleum Development and the Gydan energy venture. The company will also end its involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, the statement added.
“We are shocked by the loss of life in Ukraine, which we deplore, resulting from a senseless act of military aggression which threatens European security,” said Shell’s chief executive officer, Ben van Beurden.“Our decision to exit is one we take with conviction,” he said adding that “We cannot — and we will not — stand by. Our immediate focus is the safety of our people in Ukraine and supporting our people in Russia. In discussion with governments around the world, we will also work through the detailed business implications, including the importance of secure energy supplies to Europe and other markets, in compliance with relevant sanctions.”
At the end of 2021, Shell had around $3 billion in non-current assets in these ventures in Russia, according to the company.
“We expect that the decision to start the process of exiting joint ventures with Gazprom and related entities will impact the book value of Shell’s Russia assets and lead to impairments,” said Shell in the statement.
Putin’s critics call for boycotts of Russian vodka.Feb. 26, 2022, 6:33 p.m. ET
Azi Paybarah
The alcohol department at a supermarket in Moscow. In some parts of the United States and other countries, officials are removing Russian vodka from shelves.
Vodka, a drink that was popularized in the West by James Bond and that has long been one of Russia’s most visible exports, is now the target of international anger over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In New Hampshire, where liquor and wine are sold through state-run stores, Gov. Chris Sununu, a Republican, announced on Saturday the removal of “Russian-made and Russian-branded spirits from our liquor and wine outlets until further notice.” In Ohio, where the state contracts with private businesses to sell liquor, Gov. Mike DeWine, also a Republican, announced a halt to state purchases and sales of Russian Standard Vodka. L. Louise Lucas, a top Democrat in the Virginia State Senate, is calling for “the removal of all Russian vodka and any other Russian products” from Virginia’s nearly 400 state-run Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority stores. And Senator Tom Cotton, Republican of Arkansas, wrote on Twitter, “Dump all the Russian vodka and, alongside ammo and missiles, send the empty bottles to Ukraine to use for Molotov cocktails.”
The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, Canada’s most populated province, announced on Friday that it would remove “all products produced in Russia” from its more than 600 stores. Similar removals were underway in the provinces of Manitoba and Newfoundland, Reuters reported.
Azi Paybarah
The alcohol department at a supermarket in Moscow. In some parts of the United States and other countries, officials are removing Russian vodka from shelves.
Vodka, a drink that was popularized in the West by James Bond and that has long been one of Russia’s most visible exports, is now the target of international anger over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In New Hampshire, where liquor and wine are sold through state-run stores, Gov. Chris Sununu, a Republican, announced on Saturday the removal of “Russian-made and Russian-branded spirits from our liquor and wine outlets until further notice.” In Ohio, where the state contracts with private businesses to sell liquor, Gov. Mike DeWine, also a Republican, announced a halt to state purchases and sales of Russian Standard Vodka. L. Louise Lucas, a top Democrat in the Virginia State Senate, is calling for “the removal of all Russian vodka and any other Russian products” from Virginia’s nearly 400 state-run Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority stores. And Senator Tom Cotton, Republican of Arkansas, wrote on Twitter, “Dump all the Russian vodka and, alongside ammo and missiles, send the empty bottles to Ukraine to use for Molotov cocktails.”
The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, Canada’s most populated province, announced on Friday that it would remove “all products produced in Russia” from its more than 600 stores. Similar removals were underway in the provinces of Manitoba and Newfoundland, Reuters reported.
Exxon to exit Russia leaving 4 billion in assets
HOUSTON, March 2 (Reuters) - Exxon Mobil (XOM.N) on Tuesday said it would exit Russia oil and gas operations that it has valued at more than $4 billion and halt new investment as a result of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.
The decision will see Exxon pull out of managing large oil and gas production facilities on Sakhalin Island in Russia's Far East, and puts the fate of a proposed multi-billion dollar liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility there in doubt.
"We deplore Russia's military action that violates the territorial integrity of Ukraine and endangers its people," the company said in a statement critical of the intensifying military attacks.
Its planned exit follows dozens of other Western companies ranging from Apple (AAPL.O) and Boeing (BA.N) to BP PLC , Shell and Norway's Equinor ASA (EQNR.OL) that have halted business or announced plans to abandon their Russia operations.
Exxon, which is scheduled to meet with Wall Street analysts on Wednesday, did not provide a timetable for its exit, nor comment on potential asset writedowns. Its Russia assets were valued at $4.055 billion in its latest annual report, filed in February.
Earlier, Exxon began removing U.S. employees from Russia, two people familiar with the matter said. The number of staff being evacuated was unclear. The company sent a plane to Sakhalin Island to retrieve staff, one of the people said.
Exxon operates three large offshore oil and gas fields with operations based on Sakhalin Island on behalf of a consortium of Japanese, Indian and Russian companies that included Russia's Rosneft (ROSN.MM). The group had been advancing plans to add a LNG export terminal at the site.
"Exxon's Russian business is relatively small in the context of its wider enterprise, so it does not have the same significance as it has to BP or TotalEnergies, if it were to abandon its Russian assets," said Anish Kapadia, a director at energy and mining researcher Pallissy Advisors.
The company, which has been developing its Russian oil and gas fields since 1995, had come under pressure to cut its ties with Russia over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".
The Sakhalin facilities, which Exxon has operated since production began in 2005, represents one of the largest single direct investments in Russia, according to a project description on Exxon's website. The operation recently has pumped about 220,000 barrels per day of oil.
India's ONGC Videsh, which owns a 20% stake in the Sakhalin-1 project, said the partners will decide over the next few weeks on how to keep operating the project after exit, the Indian company told Reuters in an emailed statement.
Rosneft holds a 20% stake in the project.
The overseas investment arm of India's top explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC.NS) also said it did not see "any immediate impact" on the operation of the project due to Exxon's decision.
Japan's Sakhalin Oil and Gas Development (SODECO), which owns a 30% stake in the Sakhalin-1 project, is trying to confirm details of Exxon's announcement, a spokesperson said, adding that it will keep an eye on the Russia-Ukraine situation and decide what to do in the future.
State-backed oil producer Japan Petroleum Exploration Co (Japex) (1662.T), which owns 15.285% in SODECO, is also checking details of the Exxon's announcement and will talk to its partners to decide a future plan, a Japex spokesperson said.
The decision will see Exxon pull out of managing large oil and gas production facilities on Sakhalin Island in Russia's Far East, and puts the fate of a proposed multi-billion dollar liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility there in doubt.
"We deplore Russia's military action that violates the territorial integrity of Ukraine and endangers its people," the company said in a statement critical of the intensifying military attacks.
Its planned exit follows dozens of other Western companies ranging from Apple (AAPL.O) and Boeing (BA.N) to BP PLC , Shell and Norway's Equinor ASA (EQNR.OL) that have halted business or announced plans to abandon their Russia operations.
Exxon, which is scheduled to meet with Wall Street analysts on Wednesday, did not provide a timetable for its exit, nor comment on potential asset writedowns. Its Russia assets were valued at $4.055 billion in its latest annual report, filed in February.
Earlier, Exxon began removing U.S. employees from Russia, two people familiar with the matter said. The number of staff being evacuated was unclear. The company sent a plane to Sakhalin Island to retrieve staff, one of the people said.
Exxon operates three large offshore oil and gas fields with operations based on Sakhalin Island on behalf of a consortium of Japanese, Indian and Russian companies that included Russia's Rosneft (ROSN.MM). The group had been advancing plans to add a LNG export terminal at the site.
"Exxon's Russian business is relatively small in the context of its wider enterprise, so it does not have the same significance as it has to BP or TotalEnergies, if it were to abandon its Russian assets," said Anish Kapadia, a director at energy and mining researcher Pallissy Advisors.
The company, which has been developing its Russian oil and gas fields since 1995, had come under pressure to cut its ties with Russia over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".
The Sakhalin facilities, which Exxon has operated since production began in 2005, represents one of the largest single direct investments in Russia, according to a project description on Exxon's website. The operation recently has pumped about 220,000 barrels per day of oil.
India's ONGC Videsh, which owns a 20% stake in the Sakhalin-1 project, said the partners will decide over the next few weeks on how to keep operating the project after exit, the Indian company told Reuters in an emailed statement.
Rosneft holds a 20% stake in the project.
The overseas investment arm of India's top explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC.NS) also said it did not see "any immediate impact" on the operation of the project due to Exxon's decision.
Japan's Sakhalin Oil and Gas Development (SODECO), which owns a 30% stake in the Sakhalin-1 project, is trying to confirm details of Exxon's announcement, a spokesperson said, adding that it will keep an eye on the Russia-Ukraine situation and decide what to do in the future.
State-backed oil producer Japan Petroleum Exploration Co (Japex) (1662.T), which owns 15.285% in SODECO, is also checking details of the Exxon's announcement and will talk to its partners to decide a future plan, a Japex spokesperson said.