ŚWIETLICA COMMUNITY CENTER
Our Community Center is a safe meeting space for refugees in crisis, supported by neighbors and volunteers from around the world.
We called this place Świetlica,
The name comes from the word “światło” meaning “light.” We illuminate the darkness of war here through multicultural meetings, mutual support, education and immersion in an environment of compassion and care. In ancient Poland and Ukraine, common rooms were considered to be the main room in the house, where women gathered to work, talk and sing together.
This is the inspiration for Świetlica.
WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?
Polish language lessons
English language lessons
Theater projects
Yoga & pilates
Women's circles
Events: children's day, concerts, holidays…
Daycare
Workshops: tailoring, cooking, dancing, art…
Support groups: for mothers, for parents of children with special needs…
HOW DO WE DO IT?
AT ŚWIETLICA WE RUN
Pantry
material aid point
We distribute food, clothing and hygiene products to people in need in our community.
Domki Kultury Dębniki
Neighborhood activity incubator
Neighbors implement their ideas here, including people with refugee experience. We also have: clothes swaps, board game nights, neighbor’s day, book sharing…
Green yard
Community garden
Invented and arranged by Ukrainian and Polish neighbors, elderly people, children and teens. We grow herbs, vegetables, flowers… It was created thanks to the support of UNHCR Poland and the All Hands and Hearts Foundation.