About
Barka Foundation for Mutual Help was established in 1989 by Barbara and Tomasz Sadowski in response to the social challenges of Poland’s transformation.
The Foundation supports people experiencing homelessness, unemployment, disability, reintegration after incarceration, or addiction.
Over the past 35 years, Barka has developed complementary programmes, including community houses, education and social employment initiatives, social cooperatives, housing solutions, and local partnerships.
Barka also builds international networks in Poland, the UK, the Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, Iceland, and Canada, and provides support for refugees in crisis. Each year, around 5,000 people benefit from Barka’s programmes.
The Foundation’s mission is to foster solidarity, mutual support, and civic entrepreneurship among marginalised groups. It shares its experience through study visits, workshops, and conferences, helping to inspire policies and legislation.
Since April 2024, Barka has been a partner in the SUBLIME project, which engages young people in climate action, strengthens communities, and promotes sustainable development in cooperation with other EU countries.