The refugee and migrant crisis in Europe has been a critical issue since it began in 2015. The journey by land or sea is often extremely dangerous and those who survive then face the challenge of adjusting to new lives. Sadly, European government agencies and infrastructures are struggling to cope with the enormous number of people fleeing desperate situations. Additional aid is crucial and there is a great deal that private organizations and individuals can do to improve the situation. For more than 20 years, Projects Abroad has been sending volunteers and interns to developing countries to implement sustainable development and impact lives. Drawing on this experience, the organization has partnered with local NGOs, the Red Cross and a local municipal charity, to launch a Refugee Project in Italy.
The project, which will assist and support thousands of refugees and migrants in southern Italy, is built around two different initiatives. The first will involve helping refugees and migrants through ‘first response’ work: when a boat arrives, volunteers will help collect personal information, assist with emergency medical screenings, and distribute food and water. Medical professionals and students can make a significant impact here and so will volunteers who speak languages such as French. The second initiative revolves around ‘second response’ work, where volunteers will work with refugees and migrants who have been relocated and housed. Much of this work involves legal and human rights work and running teaching special language and culture classes.
Each and every volunteer has something to offer by participating on this project. A volunteer with basic skills can still make a difference by reaching out to give their friendship, guidance, and support – the majority of refugees and migrants are in Europe for the first time and each volunteer can help them adjust to the culture. Volunteers with various skills and expertise will also benefit the project. There is a lot of space for volunteers to contribute their own ideas as well and local Projects Abroad staff and partners will welcome any great initiatives that volunteers want to work on at the project.
With the refugee and migrant crisis worsening by the day, volunteers are needed on this project urgently. Fresh ideas, motivation, and committed volunteers can make a huge difference at a time like this. The project is available from 1 week and volunteers will stay with a local host family or in apartment accommodation. For more information, please visit www.projects-abroad.ca/news/?content=2016/projects-abroad-launches-refugee-project-in-italy.
