Greek Economic Crisis Prompts SOS to Launch Village Sponsorships

March 13, 2012 - PRLog -- International sponsorships of SOS Villages in Western Europe, including Greece, have been phased out over time, as funding for SOS Children’s Villages in that part of the world has typically come from in-country sources.

In light of Greece’s difficult financial situation, however, SOS has made the decision to open for international Village Sponsorships in two sites—at Plagiari and at Vari.

SOS Children's Villages in Greece for 35 Years

Serving children in Greece since 1975, SOS has always adapted to local needs. During the 1999 earthquake, for instance, SOS staff worked in temporary aid camps helping child victims and their families overcome difficult circumstances.


SOS-Plagiari, the first of the two villages that will open to international sponsorships, is located in northern Greece in the small town of Plagiari, 12 miles east of Thessaloniki. In keeping with ancient regional traditions, the Children’s Village there has its own amphitheater. Because public transportation is convenient, SOS children attend local schools and are well-integrated into the community.
Also about to receive sponsorships is SOS-Vari, located in a southern suburb of Athens. This SOS Children’s Village lies at the foot of Mount Hymettus and enjoys beautiful views of the Sarconic Gulf. SOS-Vari operates its own kindergarten, while older children attend Vari public schools.

Interim Steps for Greece Sponsorships

Sponsorships for these villages will be available for a six-month period starting this month. In September 2012 SOS will evaluate the situation and determine whether to continue opening these villages to international sponsors.

Because outreach for new sponsorships of SOS programs in Greece ceased in 2003, SOS is now updating the information and processes needed for sponsorship services.

Sponsor a village in Greece today and ensure children are being provided for in these tough economic times.

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For over 60 years, SOS Children's Villages has been dedicated to the long-term care of children without parental care. Through our SOS Children's Villages and other initiatives, SOS impacts the lives of over 1 million people each year.