Open Call Project: A step forward – Housing structure for women asylum seekers and especially for mothers with children

Project Promoter​: Doctors of the World, Hellenic Delegation
Programme outcome the project contributes to: Improved quality of accommodation and other services provided in open reception centers
Project grant rate: 90%
Maximum project grant amount: 994,875 euros

“A Step Forward” project aims to protect and support women and their children during the asylum application process and to quickly find sustainable solutions for their smooth living in the country. The Open Accommodation Center operates by offering all necessary services to women and their children according to their specific needs that need to be met in order to make the most of their time at the Centre.

The Open Accommodation Center is located in the centre of Athens, offering easy access to important services for the women beneficiaries, such as the Metro and the Open Polyclinic of Doctors of the World. With the capacity of 44 beds, it offers access to people with mobility disabilities, a room for disabled people, as well as specially designed areas for dining and creative activities. The project aims to support a total of 175 vulnerable women asylum seekers and their children.

On a daily basis, the basic and personal hygiene needs as well as the feeding of the beneficiaries are covered. In addition, integrated health services, psychosocial support, legal counselling, interpretation, language learning, empowerment, creative activities and supportive teaching are provided, while in cooperation with local schools, children are registered in the educational system.