A BASINGSTOKE woman of Polish origin is planning to return to her hometown in Poland to work with a support network for Ukrainians after raising more than £1,000 for the refugees.

Karolina Pus, who lives in Chineham, said she is planning to fly to her hometown Pila, where thousands of Ukrainian refugees are taking shelter.

A fundraiser, created by Karolina yesterday (Sunday), has already collected £1,235 in 24 hours, and she cannot thank the contributors enough.

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“I am positively surprised how much money we raised in a short time, and we are grateful for every single penny,” said Karolina, 39, who works for the local authority.

“We have reached our target, which is fantastic. We want to help more families now. I am flying to Pila in two-three weeks. I will be there for a couple of days, during when I am planning to meet the Ukrainian families, provide them support, buy medicines and other essentials.

“I will update my journey and experience along with all receipts of purchases on the JustGiving page and social media.”

Karolina’s parents and brother live in Pila. She said it is a small city with around 80,000 people who have opened their arms for fleeing Ukrainians.

People who have a spare bed or room to spare have been offering them to mums, children and elderly coming from Ukraine.

“This idea to travel to Pila and help people came around when I was thinking how to help the war-affected people,” Karolina said.

“I created the JustGiving page and messaged people privately and on social media channels. My wife’s colleagues have also supported the fundraiser.

“I wanted to do it more personally – go to Poland, meet families, build relationships and listen to their stories. I also want to support them on an ongoing basis, not just a one-off payment. I want to go there and ask them what they need.

“My mum and aunties are helping them already. I think as of now around 1.5 million Ukrainians are in Poland.”

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Karolina said she is planning to fly low-cost with just a backpack to save money. She will be joined by her sister-in-law who has offered to support her mission in Pila.

If you would like to contribute to Karolina’s fundraiser, click here.