For a 4th consecutive year, THI recognizes and contributes to programs which have supported more than 2,000 families

The Hellenic Initiative – THI announces a new grant of $ 50,000 to the SOS Childrens’ Villages Greece, supporting, for one more year, the food aid program assisting families affected by the recent economic crisis.

This year’s grant will secure food aid to the 36 families living in the SOS Villages Greece in Vari, Thessaloniki, Alexandroupolis, Irakleio and the SOS Home for the Babies. In total it is expected 198 children to be the direct beneficiaries of this grant. The grant, a match to the fundraising efforts of the Toronto, Canada initiative, “Reaching for the Stars” (https://www.facebook.com/reachingforthestarsSOS/) demonstrates the vitality and genuine interest of the Diaspora in being of service to the homeland of Greece.

At these challenging times, and for the past 4 years, more than 2000 families have been direct beneficiaries of the joined efforts of THI and SOS Villages Greece. The total THI funding to SOS Villages Greece, amounts to $850,000 making the organization one of the strongest partners for THI.

Michael Printzos, THI’s Program Director, stated: “Our new grant to the SOS Children’s Villages Greece demonstrates our consistent and unweaving support in organizations which aim to make a difference for those in need. Organizations that want to make an impact for citizens who are often not seen or heard, but need our help now more than ever before. Through the renewal of our grant to SOS Villages Greece, we are proud to support their efforts and aim to make a positive change for those families facing hardships across the country”.

Giorgos Protopapas, General Director of SOS Children’s Villages added: “We are really happy and touched that The Hellenic Initiative and the Greek Diaspora stand for once more by our side, proving that despite the geographic distance there are strong feelings of love and solidarity towards those in need, especially children. As long as we have friends such as The Hellenic Initiative who consistently support our work throughout the years, we feel confident that we will continue offer a loving home to every child in need”.