In April of 2022, one of our directors, Doug Hartzheim, felt led to organize a trip to Poland with a couple of pastors to find out how Shepherd's Heart Ministries and partner ministries could band together to support Ukrainian refugees.

On the first day of the trip, the team met up with Convoy of Hope – a faith-based, nonprofit that feeds children and provides disaster response worldwide. It was there they met a missionary, Peter Paluch, who was able to convey the relief efforts in place for refugees as well as those left behind in Ukraine. The team also met pastor Alex who is connected with numerous churches throughout Poland and is helping coordinate the sorting and delivery of relief goods.

From these relationships, one need emerged in discussions and planning in which Shepherd's Heart could immediately assist: finances to rent a facility where multiple refugee families could live. 

After identifying the need for housing and working with the local church in Lublin, Poland, SHM has already funded the first facility which will be used for both housing and church meetings. The first month's rent was wired on April 7. Now we are raising funds for two more housing facilities that will house 3-4 families each.

We are so thankful for pastors, church leaders, and all who have had a heart for Ukraine and are rising to the occasion. Thank you! You are already making a difference!