The Polish Committee of Social Welfare (Polski Komitet Pomocy Społecznej – PKPS) is one of the oldest non-governmental organisations in Poland, dedicated to supporting people facing difficult life circumstances. Our mission is to provide assistance, strengthen local communities, and create opportunities for vulnerable individuals to live with dignity and remain active members of society.
We operate throughout Poland, delivering both nationwide programmes and locally tailored initiatives that respond to the specific needs of communities across the country.
Humanitarian Aid and Emergency Response
PKPS has extensive experience in providing assistance to people affected by humanitarian crises and natural disasters.
Following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, we launched a comprehensive support programme for refugees in partnership with the French non-governmental organisation Secours populaire français. The programme included equipping refugee accommodation centres, providing food and essential supplies, as well as psychological, legal and employment support. At the same time, we implemented additional integration and assistance projects together with international partners, supporting people staying in PKPS facilities.
Following the devastating floods that struck south-western Poland in 2024, PKPS became actively involved in rebuilding community infrastructure. Support was provided to healthcare institutions and schools that had suffered severe damage. This was followed by educational projects promoting first aid and community resilience, helping local residents prepare for future emergencies.
International Cooperation
International cooperation is an important pillar of PKPS activities.
We work closely with Secours populaire français on humanitarian initiatives, volunteer development programmes and the exchange of knowledge and good practices between civil society organisations. We also cooperate with partners from other European countries on projects promoting social inclusion, education and community development.
Volunteering and Education
We believe that active citizenship is the foundation of strong communities.
PKPS participates in international initiatives promoting volunteering among young people, including Erasmus+ Youth Festivals. We also organise educational programmes, intercultural workshops and community events that encourage solidarity, mutual understanding and civic engagement among children and young people from different countries.
Food Assistance Programme
PKPS is one of the largest organisations implementing European food assistance programmes in Poland.
Each year, through a nationwide network of partner organisations, we distribute food to hundreds of thousands of people experiencing financial hardship. Alongside food distribution, we organise educational activities covering nutrition, household budgeting, health and legal advice, helping beneficiaries improve their quality of life and regain independence.
Services for Older People
Supporting older adults is one of the key areas of PKPS activity.
Across many regions of Poland, we provide home care services, operate day care centres and Senior Clubs, and organise programmes promoting social participation and healthy ageing. Older people take part in educational, rehabilitation, cultural and recreational activities, while also benefiting from workshops, social events and opportunities to develop new interests. In several locations, PKPS also manages rehabilitation equipment loan services and promotes intergenerational cooperation through partnerships with schools and local communities.
Local Presence – Nationwide Impact
PKPS operates through a network of regional and local branches across Poland. Our projects are tailored to the needs of local communities and are delivered in cooperation with local authorities, public institutions, non-governmental organisations and international partners.
This broad network enables us to respond effectively to changing social needs while maintaining a strong local presence throughout the country.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help people in need regain security, independence and opportunities for active participation in society. We combine immediate humanitarian assistance with long-term social, educational and community development programmes, strengthening solidarity and supporting sustainable local development across Poland.