Holistic Support for Refugees Arriving in Greece

Over the last period, the IsraAID team on the ground in Sindos, Greece, has been working hard to support refugees and asylum seekers as they cope with disrupted routines amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of the last three months have been defined by an ongoing lockdown in the country, which has prevented the community center from physically opening. In lieu of face-to-face meetings, activities, classes, and sessions, the IsraAID team is offering a suite of online resources, seeking to fill the gap in service provision during lockdown.

Over the last month, the IsraAID Greece team also welcomed a new Country Director, Adar Zehavi. Adar is a trained social worker, who holds an MA in International Community Development from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and an MSc. in Migration and Ethnic Studies from the University of Amsterdam.

In spite of the ongoing lockdown, Sindos Community Center is continuing to offer remote programming for many community members on a regular basis. However, connectivity remains a significant barrier, and many participants lack the bandwidth necessary to participate fully with video or on Zoom. Despite, this challenge, over this period, the following activities and classes were offered:

• YouTube channel videos were created and distributed—including more than 79 videos in November and December alone! (January numbers are forthcoming).  Video topics ranged from bedtime stories, to children’s songs, to yoga, cooking videos, relaxation and stress relief, and language learning for adults.
• Homework packages in math and Greek were distributed for children twice per week, with feedback provided directly from the teacher.
• Targeted information and registration support was provided for caretakers of school children, as the Greek school system transitioned to online learning.
• Ongoing English, Greek, and professional development sessions—including one-on-one, as needed!

Thank you for your ongoing support of this program!