American medical student in Poland talks about Ukrainian refugees arriving
Joanna Rak said she and a friend bought toiletries, supplies for refugees after fundraiser
Joanna Rak said she and a friend bought toiletries, supplies for refugees after fundraiser
Joanna Rak said she and a friend bought toiletries, supplies for refugees after fundraiser
The violence in Ukraine is creating the largest refugee crisis since World War II. Most of the people displaced are going to Poland.
"Everyone's just kind of come together in such a way that I've never even really thought possible," said Joanna Rak, an American medical student in Poland.
Rak is finishing her degree in Krakow, Poland. It's where thousands of refugees are fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.
She captured images of the local town square, where people sang the Ukrainian national anthem to show support.
"Basically, a few days ago I was like, 'How can I help personally?'" Rak said.
She said she bought toiletries and supplies after doing a fundraiser on social media.
"I just shared my Venmo and was overwhelmed with support," she said.
Rak and her friend raised $6,000. She said they have filled baskets and suitcases to take to a local refugee aid station.
"There's a constant flow of people coming in," Rak said.
This is where refugees are coming to pick up supplies.
"Poland knows its history with war and oppression and everything; just the U.S.S.R was not even 40 years ago," Rak said.
Rak said she will house a refugee woman fleeing the conflict. She said people are helping the best they know how.
"Definitely unexpected turn of events but we're doing everything we can," she said.
Rak said that major charities like , the and are doing great work in the area. She said sending donations or sharing verified news sources is the best way to help.