"For 45 years, there was no significant opportunity for the children of survivors to learn about their Jewish heritage and to have their special emotional and psychological needs met.

"Our Home was established in order — belatedly — to meet these needs," Schudrich added.

He estimated that there are 15,000 to 20,000 survivors and children of survivors in Poland who are interested in learning more about the Jewish religion as well as Jewish history and culture.

The center, one of the few such facilities outside of Israel, will also provide survivors and their family members with a range of programs including social, educational and self-help activities.