Welcome to the Refugee Support Express
This week:
Breaking in Bangladesh
Things are becoming increasingly complex in Bangladesh, as it is becoming incredibly difficult for us to provide services to those in desperate need of aid with dignity.
There has been growing concern over the past month for the 6,300 Rohingya refugees residing in the no-mans-land of Tumbru camp. The Myanmar military has threatened refugees in the area, as the Myanmar government this week claimed jurisdiction over the camp. It has been announced that Bangladesh has agreed for all residents at the camp to be taken and ‘resettled’ back in Myanmar.
As the Bangladeshi military steps in and tensions are mounting, our ground team are finding it harder to enter the camp to support the refugees.
We have concerns for the welfare of the refugees if this repatriation is to take place. Concerns for the safety of our team have naturally been raised and assessed; but despite the obstacles that seem set to deter them, our incredible team have operated until now the neo-natal (now general) clinic at the camp twice a week, every week, to provide access to a doctor, nurse and medicines for all on camp.
We will continue to do all that we can to help Rohingya refugees now and in the future.
But as monsoon season draws closer, we must prepare for things to get worse before they get better. With the continued support of our volunteers and donors, we hope that we can help Rohingya refugees weather this storm.
Change is on the horizon
We’re always looking for ways to be more efficient, more productive and more accessible. That’s why in the next few weeks, supporters and followers of Refugee Support Europe can expect a surprise announcement.
To accommodate our growth and the increasing need for vital support for refugees around Europe, we will be making improvements to a big part of our system.
Hint: It’ll enable you to help NAVIGATE change much faster.
Can you guess what it is? 
Keeping up with Katsikas
We are looking for volunteers to join the Katsikas Krew this spring.
If you know somebody who can water your plants and have 2-4 weeks to spare from the end of March, why not use this time to volunteer at a refugee camp? You’ll not only help Syrian refugees and aid the local residents, but you’ll become part of a close-knit community that has bonded friends for life.
You will help offer crucial support to Syrian refugees. Our co-founder Paul has published a detailed article about the structure of Katsikas camp’s free shop and market, which provides a good insight into some of the important work that you will be doing on camp.
We look forward to welcoming you to our spirited community in the beautiful area of Ioannina. We are also looking forward to welcoming home co-founder John Sloan, who is currently celebrating the birth of his beautiful baby grandson, and promises to share cute photos with volunteers upon his return in March.
If you’d like to help refugees in Greece, get in touch with us today to find out more or to sign up.
Take a hike
As April gets closer, many volunteers are tying their shoelaces and pulling up their socks in preparation for our trek through the Macedonia mountains.
This challenging fundraiser – organised to help raise vital funds and awareness for the plight of refugees in Europe – will mimic the path taken by refugees who fleeing from the northern border of Greece before the route was abolished in 2016.
You can still sign up to join us now.
We appreciate that walking is not for everyone, but everyone can get involved in this project. Instead of walking a mile in somebodies’ shoes, perhaps you’d like to donate the price of a pair of shoes? The residents at Katsikas camp have been dreaming of shoes this week, and you can help shoe them for the miles to come.
Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you next time.
Please contact us today at info@refugeesupporteu.com if you are interested in volunteering, making a donation, or just want to get in touch.
Refugee Support
