Against an idyllic background of expansive fields and a large lake, refugees of all ages enjoyed a welcome break from the stresses and uncertainties of everyday life while sharing together a bountiful picnic and lively games of football, basketball, volleyball, backgammon, all of which was sponsored by the municipality of Afyonkarahisar. Donning a colorful variety of face paintings, children spent the day deep in song and dance, creative art projects and children’s games.

“The event was a wonderful opportunity for refugees to meet one another”, commented ICMC Programme Manager, Enise Aymer. “The fact that Governor of Afyon, the municipality and the local government have been so forthcoming with their enthusiasm and generous support is a welcome acknowledgement of the fact that refugees in these communities are worthy of public services and support”.

The event was organized by the Association for Solidarity with Migrants and Asylum Seekers (ASAM), a Turkish national non-governmental organization with whom ICMC has partnered to provide assistance to vulnerable Iraqi refugees with the funding from the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration.

ICMC works closely with ASAM on outreach initiatives intended to assist vulnerable refugees in the cities in Afyon and Corum, many of whom suffer from financial hardship and isolation. The added difficulty of not knowing the local language and required bureaucratic processes makes it especially difficult for refugees and asylum seekers to access the support to which they are entitled. Even the most resourceful families face significant insecurities on a daily basis, and efforts to secure a permanent, durable solution almost always take longer than anticipated.

“When the Governor of Afyonkarahisar agreed to sponsor the picnic and transportation for the refugees, no one knew it would be so popular”, recalls Aymer.

“At the end of the day, many of the participants commented upon how much they missed the open air. Some even came to the office the next day to express again their appreciation for the event. In the face of fractured families and the serious life stresses that they are experiencing, the positive effect of these group activities and a public sign of welcome and acceptance from the local community simply cannot be underestimated”.

Photo credits: ©ASAM/2011
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