Many different backgrounds and families come together to make up a community. And in Greece, communities are now welcoming more refugees as members of the community than ever before. Our partners in Greece, Communitere, are setting out to bring those from different backgrounds together.
One of the best ways to bring people together is through activities and learning – getting out and doing something. Many refugees and locals had have some experience with sewing. So today we’re stitching together not only clothes, but friendships as well!
Everyone – not matter what their situation – was welcome to Communitere’s sewing workshop. Kids were invited. Communitere provided transportation and translation. And beginners? No problem!
Communitere purchased four sewing machines, and then everyone got to work! Participants learned how to make cylindrical scarfs, aprons and bags. The exercises helped refugees and locals alike with limited experience to improve their skills.
The workshop ended with people filled with pride on a job well done.
“Participants were empowered though the process of creating something on their own that was useful and pretty,” said a leader from Communitere. “The fact that they felt proud for their creation – simple or more elaborate – was very important, since a big part of refugees have been deprived for many months or even years from means to express their capacity and skills.”
The sewing workshop brought the community closer together, and gave newly arrived refugees a change to use their skills and show just how talented they are.
