About Community-Based Migration Programs
Within the framework of a collaboration established in May 2013 between the Turkish Red Crescent and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Child-Friendly Spaces were initiated under the Syria Emergency Response program to support refugees/migrants residing in Temporary Accommodation Centers. To further enhance the response to the migration crisis, the Turkish Red Crescent opened its first Community Center in Şanlıurfa in January 2015, addressing the needs of refugees/migrants living outside the centers and the local population they live alongside. Today, the organization operates 21 Community Centers, 3 Child Protection Centers, 8 Temporary Accommodation Centers, and 10 Mobile Units in provinces including Şanlıurfa, Istanbul (both Anatolian and European sides), Konya, Ankara, Kilis, Bursa, Izmir, Adana, Mersin, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kayseri, Kahramanmaraş, Kocaeli, and Mardin. These facilities serve both local communities and refugee populations.
General Objective of the Program
The main objective of the Community-Based Migration Programs is to enhance societal resilience and foster a culture of coexistence by improving the psychological, social, and economic well-being of all vulnerable communities and individuals.
Activities at Community Centers
Under the umbrella of Community Centers, the following activities and services are provided:
- Adaptation training to life in Turkey (including information on legal rights and humanitarian services)
- Turkish language education
- Vocational training
- Individual and group psychosocial support activities
- Group and individual therapy sessions
- Drama, music, and workshop activities for children
- Child- and youth-friendly space activities
- Health awareness and referral services
- Informational meetings for women
- Training in handicrafts, garment production, arts, and design
- Employment guidance and fieldwork (needs assessments, etc.)
- Case tracking and protection services
Scope
Community Centers offer a wide range of services, including referral services, educational activities, livelihood development initiatives, nutrition and healthcare services, social events, advocacy and protection activities, volunteer engagement, and social cohesion efforts. Additionally, child- and youth-friendly spaces contribute to shaping future generations.