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Limerick is coming together to support Justyna Smardzewska and her two young boys following the sudden passing of her partner Marcin Limerick is coming together to support Justyna Smardzewska and her two young boys following the sudden passing of her partner Marcin

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Limerick community supports Limerick mother following the passing of her partner

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3 weeks ago

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Limerick community supports Limerick mother following the passing of her partner

Limerick is coming together as it supports Justyna Smardzewska and her two young boys following the sudden passing of her partner Marcin

Limerick’s community has come together to support Justyna Smardzewska and her boys through a fundraiser set up by Justyna’s sister following the sudden passing of her partner Marcin on July 21st.

Marcin, a skilled mechanic and the sole breadwinner for the family, passed away unexpectedly in the middle of the night, leaving Justyna and their young sons, Milan (7) and Max (6), devastated.

Justyna, originally from Poland, has lived in Limerick for the past 18 years and has been a dedicated stay-at-home participating in the Community Employment Scheme (CE Scheme) until Marcin’s passing which shattered their family’s plans.


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With her income from the CE scheme barely covering rent, Justyna faces an overwhelming challenge. Because she and Marcin were not married, she does not qualify for widow’s benefits, and her participation in the CE scheme disqualifies her from other social welfare support. The burden of being the sole provider for her family, while also grappling with her own grief and supporting her children through the loss of their father, is immense.

In response to this heartbreaking situation, Justyna’s sister, Ewa, has set up a GoFundMe campaign with an initial goal of €5,000 which has raised more than €4,000 so far. The campaign aims to give Justyna the space to grieve without the added stress of financial worries.

Writing on the GoFundMe page, Ewa said, “That’s why I’m asking for your support. We’re hoping to raise funds to cover the remaining funeral expenses and provide Justyna with some financial relief for everyday expenses like rent, groceries, clothing for the boys, and back-to-school costs.

“Any contribution, no matter how small, will help Justyna find her footing during this incredibly painful time and give her the space to grieve without the added stress of financial worry.”

The community’s support, no matter how small, is deeply appreciated as Justyna and her sons navigate through this unimaginable loss.

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