The visit was held on November 18, 2021, occasioned by the 4th Annual Meeting of the Financial Mechanism Office (FMO) of Iceland, Lichtenstein, and Norway with the National Focal Point (NFP) of Hellenic Ministry of Development and Investments and the Programme and Fund Operators of Greek EEA Grants Programmes.
The first hybrid, physical & online event, after the COVID-19 pandemic, took place yesterday, November 18th in Athens. During the event, 10 programmes were presented, highlighting their major achievements, as well as the challenges the Programme and Fund Operators have faced during their progress.
Following the meeting, the FMO Delegation visited the HOUSE2 project, the new accomondation shelter for unaccompanied boys aged 6-11 years and underaged refugee mothers with their children. To date, HOUSE2 has accommodated 31 children.
It was founded in 2020, aiming to cover the need to provide accommodation and care to the most vulnerable people. “HOUSE2” becomes the second home for children who have been exposed to danger, persecution, violence and exploitation. It is the second shelter operated by the Society for the Care of Minors and Youth, a charity association operational since 1924.
Children and young mothers benefit from social care and primary health services, psychological counselling and support, legal counselling and representation, skills development and recreational activities, interpretation services, opportunities for networking thanks to cooperation with local and national public entities, and community events and activities at the neighborhood.
Mr. Jon Erik Strømø, Head of the Donor delegation – Director, Section for Central Europe and the EEA and Norway Grants, said:
“Pleased to visit this well-functioning shelter for the youngest group of unaccompanied children and underage mothers with their children. At House2 these extremely vulnerable individuals can find a second home and protection. It is a highly commendable initiative by the Society for the Care of Minors and Youth and I am grateful to see the good use made of the EEA and Norway Grants in Greece.”
HOUSE2 is funded by ΕΕΑ Grants through the programme “Asylum and Migration” (Addressing urgent needs for the reception and screening of Asylum Seekers and for the Accommodation of Vulnerable Groups), fund operated by SOL Crowe and HumanRights360.
More information about the programme here.
Communications Officer:
Eleni Zacharopoulou
M. (+30) 6974206873 | E-mail: eleni.zacharopoulou@humanrights360.org
Photo credits: Marios Lolos
