OCA Launches $50,000 Effort to Support Ukrainian Refugees in Poland

SPRINGFIELD, VA — The Orthodox Church in America (OCA) is partnering with International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) to raise $50,000 for humanitarian assistance to Ukrainian refugees in Poland, where more than one million people displaced by the war remain.

The OCA previously raised more than $720,000 for ELEOS, the humanitarian agency of the Polish Orthodox Church, during the first weeks of the conflict. The funds provided immediate assistance to refugees and supported programs helping displaced families rebuild their lives. The OCA has maintained its relationship with ELEOS, with the OCA Chancellor, Archpriest Alessandro Margheritino, visiting its staff and ministries in Poland earlier this year.

Through the current partnership between IOCC and ELEOS, thousands of Ukrainian refugees have received emergency financial assistance, shelter, legal guidance, housing support, employment counseling, and other services. Community Integration Centers have also provided Polish-language instruction, while children have benefited from daycare programs. Vocational training and small-business grants have helped displaced families restore their livelihoods and move toward greater independence.

Metr. Tikhon urged OCA clergy, monastics, and faithful to support the effort financially and prayerfully. He emphasized that Christian prayer should be accompanied by works of mercy, particularly for people displaced by war and facing continued uncertainty.

Donations to the ministry can be made here.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Sawa sent a message of hope to Svyatohirsk Lavra.