Who is Slavka from Alicia and what is their importance?

A former classmate of Alicia's, Slavka was a Christian Pole whose family did not suffer during the Nazi occupation. Slavka, however, had always considered Alicia a good friend and during Alicia's hiding and desperation, provided winter clothing and other items. When Alicia and her mother first returned to Buczacz, they stayed at Slavka's home and were given the money to rent an apartment.