Winterisation: The current challenges and how we are responding

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Unfortunately, the reality on the Greek islands remains challenging for camp residents. Weather conditions are harsh and improvements inside the camps of Lesvos, Samos, Chios, Kos and Leros are happening slower than we would like. Considering our position and capacity, we are doing what we can, together with the community and other organisations, to deliver immediate response in face of this winter in our locations of operation.

On Lesvos, we reached what some would call a milestone, but what we see as a human imperative – 20,000 hot showers taken by residents of RIC Lesvos. These hot showers have been in operation for the last month and are providing some relief this winter. Alongside, we are together with other organisations supporting distributions of important winter NFIs like winter clothes and blankets.

On Samos, we have a strong collaboration with the community and other organisations. We have been able to secure vulnerable shelters from weather conditions with tarps and pallets. Furthermore, we have secured community centre locations, the coming nights, for the most vulnerable of Vathy camp.

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t be needed. And all of these people that we work with and for would have a safe place to call home. In this current reality, we will continue to support with immediate relief, and hope to be able to provide a temporary campUs solution.

Again, we call on the European Union, as we have done and will continue to do, until long-term, sustainable solutions are enforced for people on the move.

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