Poland Tightens Aid for Ukrainian Refugees: What Changed After July 1

As of July 1, Poland has ended state funding for accommodation in collective centers for most Ukrainian refugees, leaving some displaced people without access to free housing. However, financial support remains in place for certain vulnerable categories.

TVN24 writes about this.

From now on, free accommodation will no longer be provided to mothers with children aged 1 year or older, as well as to elderly people receiving a Polish pension, even if it is the minimum payment.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Polish administration explained that most Ukrainian citizens are already working, so the need for this form of support is gradually disappearing.

At the same time, people with disabilities, pregnant Ukrainian women, and pensioners who do not receive a Polish pension and have no relatives in Poland retained the right to remain in collective accommodation centers. The government also promised to consider difficult life situations on an individual basis.

According to the Polish side, almost 11,000 people previously used free accommodation, half of whom were children. The heads of the centers predict that the new rules will affect about 40% of current residents. First of all, this applies to mothers who raise children on their own.

Representatives of public organizations warn that due to the loss of state support, some Ukrainians may find themselves homeless. This concern was also expressed by the Polish Commissioner for Human Rights Marcin Wojczek, who believes that the new restrictions increase the risk of homelessness among people under temporary protection.

At the same time, Poland has already begun collecting signatures for a petition calling for a review of the new rules and the maintenance of assistance for Ukrainians who need it most.