Lighthouse Relief was born on Lesvos in September 2015 - but as we approach our 10th anniversary the needs of the communities we serve still remain. At the same time our future is uncertain - without additional funding we will need to cease our vital programming at the end of the summer. We are therefore seeking to raise $45k to enable us to continue our programming to the end of the year, and provide the time to access additional funding sources to extend our activities into 2026 and beyond.
Distressingly, the plight of refugees and asylum-seekers in Greece is largely ignored but people fleeing war and persecution are still arriving. In 2024, around 60k refugees arrived in Greece, the highest number since 2019. Ritsona camp (where we mostly work) is encircled by concrete walls, with controlled exit systems, no public transport, and only a few NGOs operating. The camp lacks the most basic of services. In such an environment, children and young adults are especially vulnerable.
With additional funding we will be able to continue our vital sports and activity sessions for women, children and young people living in Ritsona camp until the end of this year, and provide much-needed time to generate additional funds. We strongly believe in the power of sport and play to change lives, and we are determined that the residents of Ritsona have access to activities which promote their physical and mental wellbeing, helping them maintain confidence, happiness, and self-worth.
By attending our sessions, children are able to be children again. Women can access safe spaces outside the camp, and young adults can learn to integrate with the local community through shared sporting activities. These are vital, life-enhancing experiences which will help participants on their journey to leading a fulfilled life, despite their traumatic early years.
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