Hello, My name is Aleks, and I was born and raised in Poland. I am now a proud American citizen, raising a family in Sag Harbor. My entire extended family remains in Poland, including my sister, Hanna. Hanna is a member of the Polish National Fencing team, as well as, a proud member of the Polish army.

When Russia invaded Ukraine, numerous members of the women’s Ukrainian National Fencing Team were displaced. At the onset of the attack, six of these young women were in Serbia, having just competed in the national fencing championships, while several others were already back in Ukraine. Of the latter, only two girls were able to escape, crossing at the Ukraine-Polish border. Those in Serbia were able to get to the German-Polish border, where they were picked up by Hanna. These eight young women, ages 13-21, have all been given shelter by the Club UAM, and are being housed at the University.

Their families and siblings remain still in Ukraine but cannot leave. The men and boys must fight for Ukraine, while those who fled have no money for food, medications, hygiene products, no guaranteed access to school, clothing, basic supplies, or other needed vital resources.

I am starting this Fund to help provide immediate support to these young girls who now find themselves in desperate circumstances—cut off from their families and in need of assistance.

I would like to THANK YOU for your help and support!

I will provide an update as to where and when the funds are sent and the assistance that they provide.

Sincerely,

Aleks Cappiello

Polish contacts:

The Club UAM Poznan (University Adam Mickiewicz)

Coach Pawel Kantorski (Hanna Lyczbinska)