Uniting Communities Amid Crisis: Providing Vital Support for Vulnerable Groups

In Warsaw, Poland, the European Competence Centre for Social Innovation recently orchestrated a thought-provoking event titled "Bridging Communities During Crises: Offering Material Support for Vulnerable Groups", held between the 21st and 22nd of November 2023. This event was a collaborative effort between two Communities of Practice (CoPs) focused on Material Support and Social Inclusion.

The event welcomed a diverse gathering of experts, policymakers, and practitioners passionate about addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in today's intricate societal landscape. The agenda comprised insightful sessions, workshops, and visits to local organisations that aided vulnerable groups, such as the Migrant and Refugee Assistance Center and the "Punkt pod Parasolem" (Food Bank) in Warsaw.

Luk Zelderloo, a respected figure who formerly served as the Secretary General of EASPD and leads as the thematic expert of the CoP on Social Inclusion, moderated the event. Under Zelderloo's guidance, discussions were insightful and forward-thinking, focusing on practical strategies and innovative solutions.

The first day began with an engaging session led by Asta Jurgutė, Head of the Social Innovations Competence Group at the European Social Fund Agency, who warmly welcomed attendees. The sessions delved deep into Polish strategies for material support and social inclusion within the framework of the ESF+. Key stakeholders, including representatives from governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Family and Social Policy, Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy, and various NGOs like Caritas Poland, shared their valuable insights and experiences.

The subsequent panel discussion was a highlight, gathering stakeholders to explore the impact of crises on vulnerable groups. The panellists delved into resilient solutions and effective support systems, sharing perspectives from the European Commission, the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy, the EU Red Cross Office, and the Housing First Poland Foundation.

The interactive workshop was a collaborative platform where participants engaged in table discussions, addressing challenges faced during crises and proposing actionable strategies at both EU and national levels. The emphasis was on ensuring no one's needs were overlooked, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and managing essential resources effectively.

Day two was dedicated to site visits, allowing participants to witness the work of organisations supporting vulnerable groups firsthand. Divided into groups, attendees visited notable organisations like the Migrant and Refugee Assistance Center, "Punkt pod Parasolem" (Food Bank), the Polish Women Can Do Everything Foundation, and the Red Cross. Insights gained from these visits were shared in a session that concluded with impactful closing remarks by Simona Pulbere from the European Commission. She stressed the extreme relevance of the topic, especially considering the various crises we have been facing. The site visits were especially sensitive, and seeing the practices on the ground was essential. She also encouraged the participants to be active in the upcoming CoP's events.

The event's objectives were resoundingly met, focusing on understanding challenges faced by vulnerable groups, exploring effective responses, and learning from past experiences. Luk Zelderloo's adept moderation steered conversations towards actionable outcomes, fostering an environment ripe for collaboration and idea exchange.

This event is a testament to the power of collaboration and collective efforts in addressing societal challenges. The shared experiences and insights gleaned will undoubtedly serve as guiding principles in crafting policies and initiatives that better support vulnerable communities, especially in times of crisis.

As we move forward, the lessons learned, and the connections made during this event will pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive future for all members of our society, ensuring that no one is left behind.