Communiqué from the Office of Papal Charities

20 September 2023

In these days Card. Konrad Krajewski is once again in Ukraine to bring the Holy Father's comfort to the war-torn population and to inaugurate a Home for Women and Children.

This house was built during the conflict, to support the many people who fled the bombed areas, but who since they did not want to leave the country, sought refuge in Lviv; various donors contributed to this construction, including, in a substantial way, the Holy Father through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity.

Single mothers with their children and homeless women will be housed there in suitably prepared rooms. A canteen for the poor is also planned within this facility, to provide them with a hot meal and a welcoming place.

The “House of Shelter” will be managed and cared for by the Albertine Sisters.

With regard to what happened in Lviv with the attack on the Caritas - Spes warehouse, a structure that had been used many times as a depot for the material sent by Pope Francis to the Ukrainian population, such as the power generators brought to the most isolated areas because of the conflict, Card. Krajewski said: “I feel sorrow for what happened in Lviv with the attack on the warehouse of Caritas - Spes. They struck to destroy the possibility of helping people who are suffering”.

Despite the continued bombing, the Almoner will inaugurate the “House of Shelter” on behalf of Pope Francis, as a sign of solidarity, support and proximity to the many people who have been forced to flee because of the conflict, bringing the Apostolic Blessing.

On this occasion, he will also visit the various communities hosting refugees this week, thanking all the volunteers and all those who help the suffering and needy population far from their homes.