Major Donations Impact Polish Children's Cancer Foundation Significantly

A recent initiative has seen tremendous success in raising funds for children battling cancer. Over $100,000 (PLN 348,000) was donated to the 'Na Ratunek' Children's Cancer Foundation located in Wroclaw, Poland. This remarkable effort was led by representatives of the Polish Slavic Federal Credit Union (PSFCU), based in Brooklyn, New York.

The funds were gathered as part of the annual Children's Holiday Smile campaign, a charitable event organized in collaboration with the Polish American Heritage Foundation. On February 5, 2026, a ceremonial presentation of the check took place, with key players from the PSFCU hand-delivering the donations to the foundation. Among those in attendance were Bogdan Chmielewski, the President and CEO of PSFCU, and Zbigniew Rogalski, the Chief Operating Officer, who had the pleasure of seeing their community’s efforts culminate in such a significant contribution.

“I am glad that as a Polish-American institution, we can support children in the care of the 'Na Ratunek' Foundation, as well as other children in need in hospices in Poland,” Chmielewski remarked. He emphasized the generosity of PSFCU members, who have consistently shown compassion and commitment to this noble cause over the years.

The foundations expressed their heartfelt gratitude for this generous donation. Mr. Miroslaw Szozda, Vice Chairman of the Foundation, highlighted that such a contribution is crucial for the foundation’s ongoing efforts. “348 thousand zlotys donated by the Polish American Heritage Foundation is a real boost for our operations,” he stated. The funds will enable continued care for children in oncology treatment, support for survivors, and the exploration of new research avenues for oncological diseases.

Ms. Agnieszka Perczyk, the Director of Partnerships and Communications for the Foundation, added an emotional note to the successes of the charity campaign. She articulated the symbolic importance of the Children's Holiday Smile initiative, emphasizing that it serves to remind affected families that they are not alone in their battles against cancer. Ms. Perczyk noted that this donation would facilitate reaching even more children through additional therapies, providing psychological support, and supplying necessary medications.

The Children's Holiday Smile campaign, now in its twelfth year, has gained remarkable momentum, achieving a record-breaking total of over a quarter million dollars ($251,713.18) this year alone. This year's funds are allocated to three institutions: the 'Na Ratunek' Children's Cancer Foundation received $102,329.43, Cordis Hospice in Katowice received $53,286.27, and 'Jestem' Hospice in Szczecin received $48,294.22, with the Polish American Heritage Foundation itself benefiting from $48,003.26.

Cumulatively, over the twelve years of this campaign, the PSFCU members have raised more than $1.7 million, demonstrating a sustained commitment to assisting hospices in Poland and supporting children in need both there and in the United States.

Beyond financial contributions, the Polish Slavic Federal Credit Union has always aimed at fostering community wellbeing. Founded in 1976, PSFCU first served the mortgage needs of Polish immigrants and has since expanded to support various community-directed initiatives. With 24 branches across New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, and anticipating their first Florida branch opening this spring, the organization has become a cornerstone for the Polish-American community.

Their services go beyond financial assistance; PSFCU has contributed over $8 million to scholarship programs for more than 7,500 students and provides sponsorships to numerous Polish media outlets, emphasizing their ongoing dedication to education and cultural enrichment.

This latest success story is a testament to the power of community and compassion. Contributions like these not only provide immediate relief but also foster hope and long-term care solutions for children and families facing the difficulties of cancer treatment. The PSFCU continues to make significant strides in both financial and emotional support for those in need, reminding everyone of the impact that collective efforts can achieve when motivated by compassion and solidarity.