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In Kozani, there is a place where refugees are accepted to live and be safe. That place is Neraida, near the town of Servia that is on a hill and looks down at the Polyfyto's damn.They have left their coyntry, their families and previous life fearing for their lives as they were living in war zones. Many of them have also lost their families and try to acquire the necessary papers to go to other countries where they can reunite with other family members, so they can find o job.
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In Kozani, which is not a big city the number of refugees that can be integrated are about 100 people. There is a location in Neraida Kozanis, near Servia where there is a facility thay can stay. There, refugees are welcomed, usually chlidren and young men, aged 14 to 18, from Syria, Somalia and Egypt. -
The refugees can stay in Neraida at a hotel that has been rented for them by an MKO organization, where they are given shelter, food and things to do. There, they can live safely and they can go to school in Servia. They also support the local economy in Servia and Kozani, by buying things from the market. They also come to Kozani very often using the public transport to buy other things, such as clothes and food from the super markets. -
Small businesses can help the regugees by offering them jobs such as cafes, repair shops, bakeries and car services. These jobs can help the regugees become independent. They are also given a small allowance by the governement for buying necessities. -
The refugees go to school in Servia Kozanis, where they learn the Greek language in order to learn to communicate with the locals. Although they go to school there, our school can also help by offering language lessons for better communication. Also, cultural exchange events to help building friendships and also donations of clothes, food and books. -
The refugees whether they find a job in Kozani or not, they benefit the local community. For example, more jobs and new skills in the community will increase the economic activity through business. Moreover, the cultural diversity will make Kozani more "open" and rich and people will learn to coexist with one another.