The support of Ukrainians in Podkarpackie has taken many forms
The project, coordinated by the Regional Labour Office in Rzeszów, emerged as a response to the sudden and large-scale migration of Ukrainians to Poland. It helped both - adults and children under temporary protection - who have arrived in Poland after February 24, 2022.
The project’s main goal was to develop and implement supportive measures for these people. The measures were wide in nature and depended on individual needs – ranging from help to overcome everyday challenges, to navigate a new labour market and to develop new skills. For example, the project offered psychological counselling, Polish language classes, and holiday language camps for approximately 1 700 children. Additionally, the project provided career counselling in 200 training sessions, while also helping with the recognition of qualifications, covering travel expenses, and providing caregiver support to allow parents to upskill themselves.
The uptake of the project leaves no doubt that such support was needed. Therefore, after its completion in December 2023, Podkarpackie wants to continue this initiative in the future to support more people.
The project's support helped Nataliya return to her passion
Nataliya also received support from the project. The 41-year-old experienced pastry chef used to lead a peaceful life in Ukraine with her family, also owning her own pastry business. In March 2022, everything changed when she had to flee the country with her husband and six children. They chose to come to Poland not only because of its proximity to Ukraine but also because they believed that adapting in a neighbouring country would be easier than anywhere else. Nataliya was motivated to quickly find her place in this new reality, so she promptly sought help from the Integration Center.
After a discussion with a project’s career advisor, she decided to take part in a 120-hour Polish language course and a basic entrepreneurship course. This helped her understand the Polish tax system, the principles of starting a company, and using her knowledge and skills in a new market previously unfamiliar to her. All her efforts paid off as Nataliya now works as a pastry chef again in her small bakery in Rzeszów, proving that determination and a well-thought-out plan of action can help us return to normality.
Background
The Podkarpackie Center for the Integration of Foreigners is an EFS+ funded project, co-financed by the Regional Operational Program of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship for 2014-2020. It falls under Measure 8.10, aimed at actively integrating individuals fleeing from Ukraine due to the impact of the crisis caused by the armed conflict there. The project's total budget is 3.5 million EUR, with 85% of the funding coming from the EU.
- Project locations
- Poland