WELCOME TO THE REFUGEE SUPPORT EXPRESS
THIS WEEK:
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE DISAPPEARED
Today is the International Day of the Disappeared.
Many families and individuals have been and are lost and separated through war and conflict. For many refugees, loved ones can be lost to death, imprisoned, or separated during horrific journeys to safety. Many of our refugee stories feature stories of separation.
The International Day of the Disappeared focuses on recognising the number of people missing through conflict, disaster and migration and to show solidarity to their loved ones.
We stand in solidarity with all refugees and all of those who have become displaced from their loved ones.
Keeping up with Katsikas
Renovations at Katsikas Camp to extend the camp’s capacity from 500 to 1,000 people are nearing completion. We hope to be able to open our market and offer some normality and dignity to new residents in October.
Many new arrivals will have travelled from surrounding islands such as Lesbos where they will likely have been living in terrible conditions. Naturally, new arrivals are going to need a lot of help, and as the camp is forecasted to double in size, so will we.
During our nine months at Katsikas camp, our volunteers have worked hard to help refugees regain a sense of normality: introducing facilities such as a community café; a children’s play area; flowerbeds for gardening; and a business fund that offers refugees the opportunity and support to set up their own mini-enterprises.
We are reaching out to our supporters to help us with the extra cost needed to help offer aid and support to existing and new residents at the camp. We’re also looking for volunteers to join us over the winter months to help us adapt to the new challenges, and to meet the demand for aid.
If you or someone you know would like to support refugees in Greece by volunteering at a refugee camp, please get in touch with us today, and if you’d like to help support the expansion at Katsikas camp, please make a donation today. No amount is too little.
Weathering the storm
Last week, a tropical storm hit Katsikas. But our volunteers were prepared and ready to support refugees with dignity, whatever the weather!
It often surprises people to hear that Greece has its fair share of stormy weather, and that it can get very cold for refugees in winter.
That’s why your donations for clothing, heating, nourishing food and camp maintenance are so important; because not only do they help protect from the storms outside, but help people regain a sense of safety and normality to battle the storms within.
Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you next time.
Please contact us today at info@refugeesupporteu.com if you would like to support refugees, or just want to get in touch.
Refugee Support
