Warsaw overwhelmed as key destination for refugees

With the Polish capital overwhelmed by Ukrainian refugees, the Torwar sports center in Warsaw transformed into a shelter for those fleeing the war. Cots have been laid out in a huge arena while other areas are filled with huge piles of donated diapers, clothes and other items.

Across Warsaw, people have mobilized to help, taking refugees into their homes, gathering donations and volunteering at reception centers. But the challenge is enormous. Much of the burden is being carried by volunteers taking time off work, a situation not sustainable in the long run.

Housing is a growing problem. When the conflict began, 95% of Ukrainians arriving here were taken in by friends and family. Today only 70% have relatives here. Poland's Border Guard agency says more than 1.5 million of those refugees have entered the country.