The Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodship, located in mid-northern Poland, is a region historically susceptible to various natural disasters, including floods, droughts, storms,and fires.The Salutaris Association, established in August 2012 as the voivodship marshal'sinitiative, has been instrumental in offering rapid financial support during natural disasters and emergencies.
The Solidarity Fund, maintained through the collective contributions of member municipalities and counties, serves as the primary instrument for this assistance. As of January 2025, the Salutaris Association comprises 99 members, encompassing municipalities, counties, and the regional government, all committed to fostering solidarity and mutual support in times of crisis.
In 2024, the Salutaris Association in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship allocated over EUR 167,000 (PLN 700,000) to support local communities affected by natural disasters and to enhance regional disaster response capabilities. The Solidarity Fund, the association's primary financial instrument, enabled the swift distribution of aid to local communities impacted by fires, storms, and other crisis events, thereby strengthening regional resilience and emergency preparedness. . A total of EUR 130,000 (PLN 544,500) was disbursed to various local governments, primarily to assist twenty families who lost their homes due to fires. Beneficiary municipalities included Lubanie (Włocławek County), Bobrowo (Brodnica County), Stolno (Chełmno County), Książki (Wąbrzeźno County), Białe Błota (Bydgoszcz County), and Golub-Dobrzyn.
These funds supported rebuilding efforts, the restoration of essential services, and helping affected families regain stability. . Beyond direct emergency aid, the Association extended financial support to social and infrastructure projects. Assistance was provided to the Fundacja Piękniejszego Swiata in Skłudzewo (Toruń County) to co-organise the children's creativity review "My Beautiful Safe Place", promoting mental wellbeing and resilience through artistic expression.
In addition, the municipality of Pakose (Inowrocław County) received funding to repair water mains and sewers at a local elementary school, ensuring the continued operation of critical infrastructure following disasters. . Recognising the vital role of volunteer firefighting units in disaster response, the association allocated ca. EUR 38,000 (PLN 159,000) to enhance their operational readiness. This funding facilitated the procurement of essential firefighting equipment, including combat uniforms, oxygen apparatuses, helmet flashlights, and rescue vehicle gear.
Beyond financial aid, the association engages in informational, educational, and training projects, as well as study visits and promotional activities, to enhance regional resilience and preparedness.
