World Refugee Day & YMCA (Χ.Α.Ν.Θ.):
The Power of Solidarity & the Role of Helios+
Every year on June 20th, World Refugee Day reminds us of the resilience and courage of millions of people forced to flee their homelands due to conflict, persecution, or other crises. It is a day that calls on us to remain in solidarity and take action to create a world where every refugee has the opportunity to rebuild their life in safety and dignity.
The Contribution of YMCA Thessaloniki to Refugee Support Over Time
YMCA of Thessaloniki (Χ.Α.Ν.Θ.) has a long history of supporting refugees — from the arrival of Asia Minor refugees in 1922 to today’s modern refugee crisis. It has supported thousands of refugees with housing, education, and social integration, offering tents, clean clothes, training courses, and employment opportunities. Since 2015, it has adapted its actions to meet current needs, supporting vulnerable groups and facilitating their integration into society through programs in education, sports, and volunteering.
As part of this long-standing commitment, YMCA Thessaloniki is actively involved in the HELIOS+ program, which it implements at its premises, supporting dozens of refugees and migrants every day in their efforts to make a new start. As a member of the program’s consortium, YMCA plays a key role not only in delivering services but also in shaping strategies to improve social integration.
HELIOS+: Opportunities & Potential
Within this effort, the Helios+ program plays a vital role in supporting refugees in Greece. Through its activities, it seeks to promote social inclusion, professional integration, and access to essential services, providing beneficiaries with tools and opportunities for a fresh start.
How Helios+ Helps
  • Housing and Autonomy:
    Supports the transition from accommodation centers to independent or rented housing, offering housing assistance.
  • Connection with the Labor Market:
    Facilitates access to employment opportunities through employer networks and training programs.
  • Social Integration:
    Promotes actions that enhance interaction with the local community and create bridges of communication.
  • Education and Training:
    Offers language classes, vocational training, and workshops that strengthen the skills of refugees.
World Refugee Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of such initiatives and to strengthen our collective effort for a more welcoming and humane world. Let us stand by refugees and ensure that every person seeking safety and hope finds a path toward a better life.
Helios+ Project is co-financed by the European Social Fund+ (ESF+) under the Regional Programs (RP) for 2021–2027 and is fully aligned with Greece’s National Strategy for Integration.