By Zoe Roth | Fundraising Manager
Dear friends and supporters,
2026 marks a special milestone for us: 10 years of SAO Association. What began as a small initiative has grown into a professional organisation dedicated to supporting displaced women in Greece.
How it all began
In 2015, our founder Raquel Herzog travelled to Lesbos to volunteer and provide emergency aid to arriving boat refugees during the peak of the European refugee crisis. Witnessing the immense challenges faced by people arriving on the island, and especially the vulnerability of women and mothers, she decided to continue supporting those affected. In February 2016, this commitment led to the founding of SAO Association.
From emergency response to long-term support
During its early months, SAO focused on humanitarian relief. In 2016, the organisation operated what was then the largest public warehouse for donated aid supplies in Greece, distributing essential supplies to refugees, camps, and other NGOs across the country. While distributing aid supplies in the Moria refugee camp, SAO repeatedly spoke with women and it became clear that the camp was in no way equipped to meet the specific needs of women: appalling sanitary conditions, lack of security, and disrupted sleep were the main problems. The women longed for a safe space accessible only to women, a place where they could shower safely and find someone to listen to their concerns.
Creating safe spaces for women
To respond to this need, SAO decided to focus its work entirely on displaced women and opened two specialised Day Centres:
These Day Centres offer a safe environment where women and mothers can access psychosocial counselling, practical assistance, workshops, language courses, and community support. The programmes are designed to empower women, strengthen their resilience, and support them on their path toward independence and participation in society. For many women, these Day Centres are much more than service points. They are places where they can regain dignity, rebuild confidence, and connect with others who share similar experiences.
Supporting futures: Back on Track
In 2019, SAO launched the „Back on Track“-programme, supporting displaced women in strengthening their employability and on their way to achieving a vocational skill or higher education. Through mentoring, skill-building, and support with navigating systems in Greece, the programme aims to create long-term opportunities for autonomy and integration.
A decade made possible by solidarity
Looking back over the past ten years, one thing is clear: SAO is not just an organisation, it is a community. Staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters have made it possible for SAO to operate its two Day Centres. Together, we have built spaces where displaced women get support, can rest, learn, connect, and imagine a future again.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary, we also look forward. The challenges displaced women are facing remain immense but with your support, SAO will continue working toward a world where every woman has the chance to live with dignity, safety, and opportunity.
All the best,
Zoé Roth
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