Addressing basic needs for refugees on Kos

The Hub remains the main source of support for people on the move on the island of Kos, providing access to basic items, a safe space, and resources needed for their initial steps in Greece.

In recent months, we have continued to operate both the community centre and the free shop, meeting the needs of thousands. With the tourist season, we assisted many individuals with work related issues, particularly with opening bank accounts and getting the social security and tax numbers. 

We also continue to offer English and Greek classes twice a week at our community centre, aiding visitors' integration and improving their job prospects. As the only support centre in town, we also continue to assist individuals with administrative issues and daily struggles.

Since July, we have started providing a women's and kids' space on Thursday mornings. Activities vary depending on the needs of the participants. In the first weeks, women enjoyed having access to the kitchen in order to prepare nutritious traditional meals, which is unfortunately not allowed to do in the camp. Recently, a midwife from Médecins Sans Frontières, a medical organisation which started operating in Kos in August, participates in the women's space to provide information and answer some questions. 

In the last three months, we organised and participated in different events, including a community run in the town, monthly bazaars to sell some clothes on the 1st of each month, volleyball events every Monday evenings, the Yemeni Independence Day, several team events and a screening of the movie "Under the Fig Tress" on the 27th of September. We also co-organised a demonstration on the 7th of October to show support to the Palestinian, Lebanese, Yemeni and Syrian communities, as most of our visitors are from these four countries. 

The sense of community that we promote through our different services and events is essential for many. The Hub continues to play a vital role beyong meeting basic needs, by restoring a sense of belonging. Our project wouldn't be able without your generosity, we are very grateful for that!