Fighting Homelessness and Hunger

A geographical crossroads in a politically complex region—itself divided due to an unresolved conflict—Cyprus is witnessing an increase in the number of people seeking refuge and/or asylum and in the complexity of individual cases. In the second quarter of 2018, Cyprus had the highest number of asylum seekers per capita in Europe (1656 per million); more than Greece and Malta and over six times the EU average (267 per million). Weak local systems are proving inadequate to address the resultant needs and as one of the few local humanitarian organizations that provides direct assistance to vulnerable groups, Caritas Cyprus (CCy) has seen a dramatic increase in the demand for its services.

Since January 1, 2019, CCy has welcomed 650 new migrants through its doors. Almost all arrived on the island with little more than the clothes on their back. To help them through the transition as they await assistance from the government, CCy offers a light daily breakfast at its Migrant Center in Nicosia and a newcomer’s Sunday lunch at the Holy Cross parish in Nicosia. All food is provided by donation and the Sunday lunch is prepared and served by volunteers, often from the migrant community itself. However, donations are stretched thin, which is why we are requesting for additional funding to sustain this vital service and help those who desperately need it most.