The “Streetwork Project” – an initiative of the two clubs “Checkpoint” and “Red Umbrella Athens” and “ARISTOTLE” – was created in 2013 and over the years has approached vulnerable groups such as users of psychoactive substances, refugees, immigrants, sex workers, men who have sex with men and the homeless. The project implements actions in central parts of Athens and Thessaloniki and provides information services, harm reduction, referral to other agencies and organizations. It also intervenes to promote prevention, regular screening and safer sex and distributes leaflets, condoms and synergies for safer use for intravenous users.
The Streetwork Project addressed the additional needs that emerged in the field during the pandemic, due to the restrictive measures. At the same time, the partial suspension of organizations and agencies providing support services to vulnerable populations has exacerbated the situation, as many of their homeless fellow citizens are already facing severe food problems. That’s why they adjusted their actions, extended our working hours and days.
On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, through the websites and social media of the clubs, they issued the first call to the public to strengthen this effort. The response was very moving.
On Monday, April 27, 2020, due to the growing needs, they started a crowdfunding campaign to raise more food, bottled water, juices, snacks, protective medical material (masks, gloves, antiseptics) and personal hygiene items.
If you want to make a cash donation, crowdfunding campaign can be found here>>>. It will be available until May 30, 2020.
So far, they have collected:
- 1,600 kit of sanitary material for injectable use
- 6,000 disposable gloves
- 4,500 protective masks
- 50 antiseptic wipes
- 25 sleeping bags
- 14,000 bottles of bottled water
- 2,500 juices
- 3,500 croissants
- 2,500 snacks (breadsticks, nuts cookies, etc.)
- 2,500 portions of food
From March 31 until today, they have made the following available to vulnerable groups:
- 400 kit of sanitary material for injectable use
- 100 disposable gloves
- 100 protective masks
- 50 antiseptic wipes
- 15 sleeping bags
- 3,500 meals (portions of food, toast, sandwiches, croissants, etc.)
- 3,000 juices and water