How to Help During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Almost 1 billion people worldwide are staying at home in an effort to halt the spread of Coronavirus. This pandemic is more dangerous for vulnerable people, including the elderly, those with pre-existing conditions, and those displaced from their homes. At the borders of Europe, some of the world’s most vulnerable people are confined in squalid and overcrowded camps on the Greek islands and mainland. The current situation worsens their living conditions even further, with preventative measures limiting access to crucial services.

Unfortunately, we are currently not processing or accepting volunteer applications, and we strongly encourage everyone to stay at home to minimise the risks of exposing others to the virus. Many of you have reached out to ask how you could help us, or support asylum seekers from the isolation of your homes. Here are a few suggestions. To add to this list, please comment below!

1. Find ways to support your community!
   Now is the time to turn to your local community, and see who might need support in these uncertain times. Whether fundraising to keep a local business afloat, donating to a local shelter or NGO organising food distribution for the homeless, or offering to do grocery shopping for elderly neighbors, your solidarity is more needed than ever. If shopping for more vulnerable neighbours, make sure to drop off items in a way that minimises contact.
2. Donate to NGOs on the ground!
   For many NGOs, it has been an extremely challenging month. Financial support is more crucial than ever to keep them afloat. Tomorrow, GlobalGiving will launch its “Little by Little” campaign: every donation $50 USD and under will be matched at 50% for a week! This is the occasion to multiply your contribution. You can support us by donating at this link : https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/beyond-the-shore/ or this link: https://www.globalgiving.org/…/support-a-shoreline-respons…/
   Other actors on the ground who might need your help: Medical Volunteers International e.V., Borderline Lesvos, Attika Human Support
3. Volunteer online to support asylum seekers & refugees!
   Although many organisations in Greece may not be able to accept volunteers at this time, some may have opportunities for volunteering remotely. NGOs, like Mazí Housing Project, need your help for fundraising or media. Are you a grant writing expert? Offer your skills to small NGOs seeking sustainable funding!
4. Contact your representatives!
   It is your democratic right to reach out to your representatives in national or EU governments. You can write them a letter or an email, bringing their attention to the situation at our borders. Call for them to demand an evacuation of the Aegean islands and a relocation of asylum seekers throughout the EU. Share the petitions below with them.
5. Raise awareness!
   With Coronavirus omnipresent in the media and public discourse, it can be difficult to talk about anything else. We must not forget about asylum seekers, who could be disproportionately affected by this pandemic. Talk to your friends and family about the conditions on the Aegean islands. You can also sign and share petitions such as https://www.change.org/p/leavenoonebehind-prevent-the-coron… and https://www.change.org/p/charles-michel-europe-must-act-now… #EuropeMustAct