We help refugees – volunteering at WSTiE

The community of the University College of Tourism and Ecology has been characterized by diversity, inclusiveness and tolerance for 20 years. It is not surprising that students from other countries, including Ukraine, feel at home here. Thanks to the support and development opportunities they receive, they build not only the foundations of their future careers, but also great empathy.

They proved it during the support activities that the University College of Tourism and Ecology started right after the outbreak of war in Ukraine. Already in the first week the collection of gifts started – including much needed food and medical supplies. The community of WSTiE devoted their free time, organizing work at the collection point, as well as 24 hours a day, segregating the donated products. Ukrainian students offered additional linguistic support, thanks to which the parcels to be transported were described precisely.

However, that is not all. WSTiE students also offered their help at other support points around the city. They helped translate documents and materials for the visitors, and supported the city representatives in communicating with refugees. Knowing that help must first of all be wise, they received dedicated training. The knowledge they gained allowed them to formally support refugees during their contacts with the authorities, including when filling out applications for PESEL numbers.

Apart from technical assistance, there was also ordinary human kindness. Students of WSTiE were in constant contact with refugees accommodated in partner Hotel Monttis, providing them with needed support. Sometimes it was just a kind conversation, sometimes a friendly gesture, and sometimes playing with children who had been through the trauma of war. When asked why they were doing it, they unanimously answered: because someone had once extended a helping hand to them, so they wanted to return the favor and pass the goodness on.