There are two things I miss the most when I spend time with our partner organisations in Greece.
That is, sharing chai (tea) with the people in camps whilst simply sitting and listening to whatever they want to share in that moment. And, being able to welcome those who have just arrived in Greece; people stepping onto European soil after surviving the dangerous Aegean crossing know 10,000s before them weren't so lucky. I miss being able to greet them with a smile that says: you’re safe, you’re seen, you’re not alone.
Why can't I do these things? Because it's not allowed anymore.
Families arriving as refugees are now hidden behind high walls. Camps are called “Closed Controlled Access Centres” and are as welcoming as they sound. Aid workers are largely kept out. Movement is controlled. This results in their humanity being stolen and their stories being silenced.
The system doesn’t want warmth, connection or humanity. It wants ever-increasing distance, fear and dehumanisation. I have to confess - I didn't see it coming. I didn't think this would be Europe's (and the UK’s) response to people in need and I still find it devastating.
But this is where our exceptional partners step in.
With tiny budgets and huge determination, they do everything they can to support people through this difficult time - from legal help and information, to community spaces, education, clothes, hygiene, food, laundry, sport, and simple dignity.
I saw it everywhere.
Maaike making sure new arrivals understand their asylum rights.
Katerina bringing energy and care into providing a gym.
Moath and Joana running distributions where people can choose what they need with dignity.
Women calling LEILA’s new helpline when they have nowhere else to turn.
Young people studying, learning skills, sharing meals, finding their voice.
These grassroots groups aren’t ‘extra support’, they are the support.
And they are only still standing because people like you choose to stand with them.
At forRefugees, we exist to back them in the moments that matter most - directing funding quickly and flexibly, wherever the need is greatest as situations change.
Right now, that flexibility is helping to keep these vital services alive for the people depending on them.
If you’re able, please consider supporting forRefugees today - or simply staying connected and sharing our work - so together we can keep responding where help is needed most.
At forRefugees, your compassion reaches the people the system wants you to forget.
