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Christmas Eve for Socially Excluded People in Dublin – The Beginning of a New Tradition

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This December, the Barka for Mutual Help Ireland, in cooperation with the Consular and Polish Diaspora Section of the Embassy of Poland in Dublin, organised a Christmas Eve celebration in Dublin for people experiencing homelessness, loneliness, and difficult life circumstances. Around 150 participants gathered for an evening filled with warmth, community, and hope.

For over 30 years, Christmas Eve for those in need has been a cherished tradition of the Polish Barka Foundation, where every year around 350 people come together to share a meal, sing carols, and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. It is a time when those who often face exclusion find companionship, dignity, and belonging.

This year, that beautiful tradition has taken root in Dublin, marking the beginning of what we hope will become a lasting annual celebration for the local Polish and Irish community.

The event, held at the Polish Library Biblary, began with a bilingual welcome and greetings from invited guests, including representatives of CKU Dublin, Forum Polonia, partner organisations, and clergy. Together, participants prayed, shared the Christmas wafer, and sang “Silent Night,” creating an atmosphere of unity and peace.

After the spiritual part, guests enjoyed traditional Polish Christmas Eve dishes — including pierogi, barszcz with dumplings, carp, and various festive salads — served in a warm, family-like setting, with carols playing softly in the background. The evening also included expressions of gratitude to volunteers, short speeches from guests, and the much-awaited arrival of Saint Nicholas.

Thirty children received Christmas gifts, while adults were given festive aid packages prepared by Barka and Polish Embassy, bringing joy and comfort to those most in need. Adding to the festive spirit, students of the Polish School SEN prepared beautiful Christmas centerpieces, while participants of the Polish Leaving Certificate course (PPLI) created handmade Christmas cards with wishes for the event’s guests.

The event concluded with group photos and warm exchanges that, for many, became the most touching moment of the evening.

We are deeply grateful to all volunteers, partners, and supporters whose generosity made this event possible. Thanks to you, the Dublin Christmas Eve of 2025 became not only a night of compassion but also the beginning of a new, meaningful tradition inspired by the long-standing Polish example.

Photo: Remi Winiarski

In Memory of Sr Stanislaus Kennedy (1939–2025)

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It is with deep sadness that we join many across Ireland in mourning the passing of Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, known to so many simply as Sr Stan.

Sr Stan passed away peacefully at St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, following an illness. She was 86.

A tireless advocate for social justice, Sr Stan dedicated her life to supporting those most in need — people experiencing homelessness, immigrants, and members of disadvantaged communities across Ireland and beyond.

In 1985, she founded Focus Point, today known as Focus Ireland, after witnessing the growing number of women and families without homes in Dublin. Her compassion, vision, and determination shaped one of Ireland’s most respected organisations supporting people affected by homelessness.

In the early 2000s, Sr Stan also established the Immigrant Council of Ireland, working to promote the rights, dignity, and inclusion of migrants and refugees.

Her religious name, Stanislaus, was chosen in honour of St. Stanislaus Kostka, a Polish saint and patron of young people and novices — a fitting symbol of her lifelong dedication to compassion and service.

Throughout her life, Sr Stan remained a powerful voice for compassion, equality, and change. Her work inspired countless others to take action, to serve, and to believe that no one should be left behind.

As the Religious Sisters of Charity wrote, she leaves behind “a legacy of a life dedicated to the service of others in need.”

The entire Barka team wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude for Sr Stan’s lifelong commitment to social justice. Her example continues to guide and inspire us in our daily work — supporting those who seek a new beginning and a place of belonging.

May she rest in peace. 🌿

Małgorzata’s Journey to Safety and Recovery with Barka

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Małgorzata, an 83-year-old woman, arrived in Ireland a year ago, having been brought by her son. She lived with him for a while, but over time, her son’s behavior became increasingly violent due to his addiction issues. He subjected her to both verbal and physical abuse. One day, things escalated to the point where Małgorzata can’t even recall how the situation unfolded. However, she was rescued by a Polish woman who lived nearby. Małgorzata had confided in her about her troubles, and the woman took action, ensuring that Małgorzata was safe.

The trauma Małgorzata endured was so severe that she does not even remember how she ended up in a shelter for victims of abuse. However, once she arrived at the shelter, she was warmly welcomed and listened to. She was provided with food, clothing, shelter, and specialized support. During the initial assessment, the staff decided to seek medical assistance. As a result, Małgorzata was admitted to the hospital, where early signs of dementia were detected.

After a month-long stay in the hospital and further tests, doctors confirmed that Małgorzata was capable of living independently. She was ready to be discharged. At this point, the social worker from the shelter reached out to Barka for further assistance. A Barka staff member visited Małgorzata at the hospital and confirmed her desire to return to her home in Poland. However, Małgorzata’s Polish bank card was blocked, and her son was unwilling to help her financially. After discussing the situation, Barka decided to purchase an airline ticket for her.

A few days later, the Barka staff member, together with a hospital worker and Gardai (Irish police), accompanied Małgorzata to her son’s house for a final visit. There, Małgorzata collected her passport and other essential belongings. The staff ensured her safety and support throughout the entire process. Once everything was in order, the flight ticket was purchased, and Barka’s staff member escorted Małgorzata to the airport. Małgorzata returned to Poland, where she was met by a distant relative at the airport.

Throughout this journey, Małgorzata expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the life-changing support she received from Barka. She frequently mentioned that Barka had “saved her life” and thanked everyone involved in helping her return home. Back in Poland, Małgorzata plans to continue her medical treatment and participate in local senior club meetings. Among her goals is to learn English, a language she has always wanted to master.

Impact and Outcomes:

  • Małgorzata received immediate shelter, care, and medical support after escaping a dangerous situation.
  • Early intervention allowed her to receive the necessary diagnosis and treatment for dementia.
  • Barka facilitated her safe return to Poland, where she was reunited with her family and began to regain control of her life.
  • Małgorzata’s plans involve continuing her healthcare journey and engaging in social activities, ensuring her continued independence and well-being.

Barka’s Role: Barka’s intervention was critical in Małgorzata’s recovery and safe return home. Our team not only provided emotional and logistical support but also helped her navigate through a challenging situation. We are proud to have been part of Małgorzata’s journey and continue to support individuals like her who need assistance.