Project Promoter: Doctors of the World – Greek Delegation (MDM Gr)
Outcome: Improved quality of accommodation and other services provided in open reception centers
Project grant rate: 90%
Maximum project grant amount: € 994.875
Duration: July 2020 – February 2023
The project aimed 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.
In total, 175 vulnerable women asylum seekers and their children were benefited during the implementation period.
Key results:
The project provided essential services such as food, hygiene kits, and clothing while ensuring safe, comfortable living conditions through well-maintained infrastructure. Accessible spaces, free Wi-Fi, and equipped kitchens enhanced the quality of life, with recent renovations improving functionality.
Healthcare and psychological support exceeded targets, offering primary healthcare, dental care, and mental health services. The Polyclinic of Doctors of the World-Greece played a key role, especially in addressing children’s medical needs amid challenges in accessing public healthcare. Psychological support included personalized plans and group sessions, fostering trauma recovery, autonomy, and empowerment.
Legal counseling and interpretation services were expanded to address complex legal challenges and the diverse linguistic backgrounds of beneficiaries, ensuring access to necessary resources. Educational programs surpassed expectations, offering Greek language lessons and seminars on sexual and reproductive health rights. Recreational activities, including museum visits, sightseeing, yoga, and capoeira, supported a holistic approach to well-being.
A major success was school enrollment: 41 of 50 school-age children joined public schools, facilitated by strong collaboration with educational authorities. Initially serving asylum seekers, the project adapted under Amendment 3 to include non-asylum seekers, such as Ukrainian refugees, providing culturally sensitive services. This flexibility underscored the importance of donor-supported initiatives in responding to emerging needs while managing potential tensions among diverse beneficiaries.
The project prioritized integration into the Greek community and labor market through career orientation, language classes, and partnerships with organizations like “Odyssea.” Women were encouraged to take active roles in the center and prioritize their children’s education, fostering empowerment.
By offering secure housing, education, career development, and psychological care, the project promoted autonomy and well-being, particularly among survivors of gender-based violence and trauma. Its adaptability in addressing evolving crises and cultural sensitivities highlighted its crucial role in supporting vulnerable populations.
