In a playful way, refugee children learn to address challenges and talk about feelings. Photo: LWF/ A. Brzozowski
LWF's new initiative supports young refugees' well-being and integration
(LWI) - In response to the unique challenges faced by refugee students, the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Foundation in Poland has launched a mental health initiative in Polish schools for the 2024/2025 school year. Led by Ukrainian psychologists at the LWF Community Center in Gdańsk, the program offers a safe space for students to share, grow, and build resilience.
Diverse educational needs
"It's cool to hear your mother language in a Polish school," a young Ukrainian girl shared, referring to the LWF project. The mental health support project responds to requirements from the Polish educational system, which mandates tailored support for children with migrant backgrounds. Two and a half years after the beginning of the full-scale invasion in Ukraine, home schooling is no longer an option. Ukrainian refugee families are urged to enroll their children in public schools, as long-term homeschooling affects the children's mental and physical well-being – otherwise they lose child benefits.
The classes support the young refugees’ integration into Polish society. Photo: LWF/ A. Brzozowski
The LWF Community Center in Gdańsk implemented a psychological support program in local schools in the spring. Since September, these efforts have been especially targeted at integration classes, which bring together students with diverse educational needs. "This program was created for Ukrainian and Polish students who need additional emotional and psychological support in their everyday school experiences," explains Alina Hornostaieva, a psychologist at the Community Center.
Professionals help people navigate emotional challenges, cope with stress, and address interpersonal and daily issues. Services include one-on-one therapy, group support sessions, personal development workshops, and family counseling to resolve conflicts and strengthen relationships.
The Community Center also offers mental health education classes focused on self-awareness, stress management, and nurturing healthy thought patterns. In moments of crisis—such as the loss of loved ones, work-related difficulties, or major life changes—psychologists offer crucial support to the Ukrainian community, creating a safe space for conversations that promote psychological well-being and personal growth.
More inclusive schools
As psychologist Olena Pavlova notes, "Thanks to the program, schools are becoming more inclusive, giving students the tools they need to handle emotional and social challenges, which is essential for their overall development."
Students also reflect positively on the experience. "We know how to be friends, but I didn't know there were special games for that!" commented a 4th-grade boy. An 8th-grade boy added, "We are taught to be kind to others, but not ourselves. Perhaps that's why we sometimes erupt in aggression—because of our own vulnerability."
We are taught to be kind to others, but not ourselves
Grade 8 refugee student in Poland
With over a dozen meetings held so far and around 30 more planned by the end of 2024, the program's success has exceeded expectations. "We are thrilled by the interest and the positive reception our support has received," shares Artur Brzozowski, Team Leader at the Community Center.
So far, more than 150 students have attended around 20 meetings, with many more to come. "The sessions have fostered a welcoming environment, where students feel comfortable discussing their experiences and challenges," the psychologist concludes.
