Médecins Sans Frontières, Greece, emergency preparedness programme in the Aegean Islands
The Foundation has supported the Greek chapter of this international organisation since 2012, supporting the provision of a medical programme for people with limited access to health services. In 2015 Greece became one of the main gateways into Europe for migrants and asylum seekers. As of 13 December 2015, 797,520 people had arrived in the Greek islands (compared to 43,500 in 2014). Most of the people come from Syria (59%), Afghanistan (24%) and Iraq (8%). The main problems they face upon arrival are extreme stress and lack of information, shelter, food, medical care and psychological support. Responding to this medical and humanitarian emergency, MSF launched new projects in the Dodecanese and Lesbos in March 2015 to contribute in ensuring the survival, the dignity and the relief of people who suffer, focusing on providing access to medical care and humanitarian assistance (non-food items, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, installation of toilets and showers, tents, free shuttle service and sanitation). MSF is currently operating in the Dodecanese islands, Samos, Agathonissi, Lesbos, Athens and Idomeni, and also focus on communicating the situation and seeking possible ways of improvement. For a number of years, the Foundation’s support has targeted the MSF’s refugee programmes and most recently it has supported the Urban Day Care Centre and Clinic in Athens, which responds to the medical needs of asylum seekers and migrants.
Grants given:
2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
