Greece: Malakasa Refugee Ministry

Imagine fleeing your home with nothing but the clothes on your back—leaving behind loved ones and everything familiar. For thousands of refugees in Greece, this is their reality. They have endured unimaginable hardships, yet they arrive in a place where help is scarce, and hope feels distant.

In recent years, Greece has become a primary entry point for refugees escaping conflict, persecution, and extreme poverty. The government relocated its refugee camps outside metropolitan areas, making access to aid even more difficult. Many organizations that once provided essential support have had to close their doors, leaving refugees in desperate circumstances.

At one of the largest camps near Athens, refugees struggle daily to meet even their most basic needs. The local community has not embraced them, and humanitarian efforts are limited. Amidst these challenges, our workers and several partnering Christian organizations have started a ministry near the camp in Malakasa to serve and love these displaced people.

The outreach began in a small parking lot near the refugee camp, but unpredictable weather and the lack of a dedicated meeting space limited the ministry’s impact. Now, God has opened the door to rent a building nearby—a safe and welcoming place where refugees can find practical help, healing, and hope.

The facility will serve as an outreach center, providing shelter from the summer heat and warmth in the winter. It will be a place for Bible studies, counseling, and language classes, as well as a hub for distributing food, clothing, and Christian resources. Additionally, it will feature a tea house where relationships can be built and trust can grow.

The total cost for rent and utilities is $1,500 per month, shared among five partnering organizations. Avant is committed to contributing $300 each month. Additionally, we hope to fund necessary renovations and purchase a van to transport refugees from another refugee camp to the center.

Your support will help us create a welcoming space where physical needs are met, relationships are formed, and lives are transformed by the love of Christ.