January 2025 Monthly Report

In January 2025 at Wave, we served 2,632 hot meals, welcomed 13 new arrivals, charged 167 phones and power banks, ran 61 showers, and washed 34 laundry loads, hygiene items 564, and distributed 120 clothing items.

The total population we supported this month was 1,815

 

January updates

It’s been another busy month for us! During the first month of 2025, we have seen a rise in the number of people visiting our community center, including an increase in the number of the Greek community members accessing our services, and we also welcomed several children aged 10 to 12 who arrived with their fathers. Ensuring that our space is welcoming and supportive for families remains a key focus for us.

Unfortunately, we faced security challenges as our external containers were broken into three times this month. We’re currently working on repairs and exploring ways to improve security to keep our space safer and better protected.

On a brighter note, the market went very well this month, bringing in a wide variety of supplies—including an abundance of broccoli! Cooking continues to require flexibility, and we enjoyed experimenting with new recipes alongside our regular dishes. Trying out new meals helps us make the most of the donations we receive while keeping the menu exciting for everyone.

Ramadan Fundraiser

Over the past two months, we have seen a steady rise in the number of people visiting our center, with an average of 100 to 120 portions of warm, nutritious food served daily.

With Ramadan fast approaching, we want to make this holy month special by preparing traditional dishes that bring comfort and a sense of home to our community. These meals often include more expensive ingredients such as olive oil, honey, butter, rice, and meat—staples that many in our community rarely have access to.

To help make this possible, we launched our Ramadan Fundraiser in the first week of February, aiming to raise €1,500. Many of those we support will be observing this sacred month in difficult conditions, far from their families and homes. With your help, we can ensure that they have nourishing meals to break their fast.

We have almost reached our fundraising target and would deeply appreciate any contribution to help us get over the line and maybe even raise extra! Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. Please consider supporting us in making this Ramadan as special as possible for our community.

Team Changes

This month we sadly say goodbye to our project coordinator Annie who will be dearly missed. During her time as a project coordinator, Annie brought new insights, ideas and a sense of warmth to the team and the communities we work in solidarity with. Thank you for the energy you brought to the project for the last 2,5 years and good luck!

Tamer joined Wave who will take on Annie’s position as Project coordinator.

Tamer lives in Greece and has a wealth of experience working in various projects and contacts with local organizations and self-organized groups in Thessaloniki.