The Success Story of Olha and Her Son: Right to Protection Poland Specialists Helped to Restore Temporary Protection and Social Benefits in Poland

December 6, 2024

Olha arrived in Poland in March 2022 with her two children after the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It was her first experience of living in Poland. Under stress, everything seemed completely new and unfamiliar.

Her situation was complicated because her son did not have a passport, and her daughter's passport was expired. After Olha obtained new documents through the consulate, which she provided during her trip to Ukraine, a new problem arose: her son's UKR status (special status for Ukrainians under temporary protection) was not updated in the Polish system. As a result, social benefits were suspended. All attempts to solve the problem on their own were in vain.

After five months of unsuccessful appeals to various services, Olha found information about Right to Protection Poland and asked for help.

Immigration expert Marianna Filipchuk conducted a thorough analysis of the case, assisting her in drafting an appeal to the Polish Border Guard and, after their response, to the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). Thanks to this professional support, the problem was resolved within three weeks, and the son’s social benefits were restored.

«I think you are doing a vital job. Immigration is complicated, and forced immigration, which many Ukrainians are currently experiencing, is twice as complicated. This often happens with an incomplete family, in a new country, with new conditions, language, schools for children, and everyday life. This is a multitasking regime that is hard to imagine in civilian life. Being in a foreign country, where you have to take care of children, your economic and mental state, support and assistance are crucial and valuable», — Olga shared her experience.

The Fund continues to help Ukrainians under challenging situations in Poland. If you or someone you know needs help in Poland, please contact us! Together, we can do more.