Partnering with Terre des hommes to provide safe spaces for refugee children

In 2015 and 2016, more than 1 million refugees and asylum seekers arrived in Greece, seeking safety in Europe. Most were fleeing war, primarily from Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2016, almost 60% were women and children.

When Macedonia closed its border with Greece, thousands of people were trapped in northern Greece. Many were housed in emergency reception sites, where conditions were completely inadequate.

Terre des hommes (Tdh) quickly moved to provide services for the stranded children and their families in the emergency sites of Kalochori (also called SK Market), Derveni Hope (or simply "Hope"), Petra Olimpou and Derveni Alexyl (or simply "Derveni"). ChildFund Alliance was a partner for Terre des hommes’ programs in Greece.

All photos © Terre des hommes.

Child-friendly spaces (CFS) are safe places where children's unique needs can be met. They help children return to a normal routine by offering structured activities, games and informal education. The CFS in Derveni provides a bright, safe environment for young children.

Many children and youth have missed out on months, or even years, of education. Here, a classroom has been set up in Kalochori SK Market.

Preparing a visit to the planetarium for refugee children living in the camp of Derveni.jpg

Being a refugee isn’t much fun. Here, Tdh staff are preparing a visit to the planetarium for refugee children living in the Derveni camp.

Tutorial on how to produce a comic in the Derveni CFS.jpg

Here, children get a tutorial on how to produce a comic in the Derveni CFS.

Implementing PSS activities in Petra Olympou CFS.jpg

Children who have fled conflict and faced treacherous journeys are often severely traumatized. Psychosocial support activities, such as these in Petra Olympou CFS, help improve children’s well-being and strengthen their resilience.

Football training for the team of Derveni as part of a Youth Club Project.jpg

Activities such as sports can help build a sense of normalcy. Here, youth participate in football training for the team in Derveni as part of a youth club project.

Mother and baby area in Hope.

Distribution of fleeces and socks in the camp of Kalochori.jpg

Asylum seekers often arrive with not much more than the clothes on their backs. Here they receive warm fleeces and socks during a clothing distribution in the camp at Kalochori.

Installation of a laundry service in Kalochori.jpg

Providing services such as laundries, such as this one in Kalochori, helps families maintain their dignity.

Arabic cooking day in Hope brings a reminder of home.