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Greek Fire Relief Efforts from SOS Children’s Villages

September 10, 2007

Geography is not my strong suit. When I sat down to write about the fires in Greece and the SOS Children’s Villages’ relief efforts there, I had to know where the fires were in relation to the villages already in Greece. There are already two villages in Greece, but neither is as far south as the most devastating fires, nor as far west. The closest village is the one in Vari, Greece, which is south of the capital of Athens. That village in Vari has housed Greek orphaned children since August 1982, just over 25 years ago!

In southern Greece, large fires were devastating families in late August into early September. SOS Children’s Villages in Greece responded to four affected towns and is providing temporary housing for over 30 families who have lost their belongings to the fires. SOS Children’s Villages will be providing counseling and support, as needed.

Early reports indicate that the wildfires have not deterred tourists to Greece, an industry which produces 1 in 5 jobs in Greece, and accounts for 20% of the gross domestic product. But as much as 5% of the olive harvest may be affected, in fact, lost to the fires. The loss of olive trees could continue to affect the production of olives and olive oil, and we wish the best for Greece and a speedy recovery!

Topics: Childrens Village news, Eastern Europe |