So far, 28 students from the Academic Circle of the Polish Red Cross have volunteered to provide help. Why did they choose to volunteer in this way?
We thought there were many of us, we were willing, we had the required knowledge, and we wanted to use our enthusiasm to help others. Furthermore, we can learn a lot in the process,” says Alex Fitas, a student of the fifth year of medicine.
They get a signal beforehand where to go. This is set by the head of the Ambulans z Serca Foundation. People in the homelessness crisis know that medical help will come to them.
- Chronic wounds occur most frequently. We treat them either in the ambulance or, if necessary, in the homelessness crisis centre in Żytnia Street. There are also more severe cases. For example, we recently had a patient with pneumonia whom we had to take to the ED,” - reports Alex.
Volunteers from the Academic Circle of the Polish Red Cross are also planning to set up a clinic in Żytnia Street. They will be there to receive people who apply at specific times. The outpatient clinic is due to start in mid-February.
Our students will also participate in an aid event at the Central Station. It is a joint project of several foundations aimed at people in the homelessness crisis. As part of it, once a week, on Sunday, food is provided at the station, first aid is given, and medical education is available for people in need.
Any medical or emergency student can volunteer to help with the Ambulans z Serca. Mainly fourth, fifth, sixth-year students are accepted, but students from younger years will also be welcome. The latter have to go on patrols with more experienced volunteers or doctors from the Foundation.
Ambulans z Serca Foundation is running a collection for a new ambulance. The current one is a long-serving one. You can support this collection here