Refuge Egypt
Where are they?
What do they do?
Who benefits?
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Cairo
Provide a place of welcome for refugees’ first two years in Cairo, while their claims are being considered.
27,000 people registered with their programmes. |
More Information:
Founded: 1985
Beginnings:
Many African refugees come to Cairo to flee from persecution, war or disaster in their homelands. There are no refugee camps in Egypt and therefore these displaced people are forced to fend for themselves in an unfamiliar and, at times, hostile culture.
One of the main problems faced by displaced people from Sudan is that they are not legally recognised as refugees, due to the open border.
Activities:
Refuge Egypt seeks to deliver the following five aims:
A place of welcome where displaced people can find respite from their difficulties. The Centre’s café is the only place where refugees can socialise.
Spiritual encouragement is provided through leadership and lay training. As well as organising church services, Bible studies and evangelistic events in the refugees’ native language, the Centre trains Sudanese volunteers as counsellors – a service adopted by up to 27,000 refugees.
Advocacy is given on individual and international levels. Refuge Egypt advises those who claim asylum and assists those making applications to the UNHCR. A language and culture training programme is provided by the Centre and an Employment Office helps refugees to find jobs and protect their rights.
Health care is a critical need for refugees as many arrive with health problems further compounded by bad living conditions and poor nutrition. Refuge Egypt offers health care to refugees unable to access governmental medical services or afford private treatment. It also provides emergency food and clothing if necessary. The Centre helps run a basic clinic in a slum area on the edge of Cairo.
Education is another critical need. Refuge Egypt gives primary education to children and teenagers. The Centre also runs adult literacy classes and recently opened a pre-school.
Read an article about the Tukul Crafts workshop
Click here for a printable factsheet on Refuge Egypt
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