Welcoming the Stranger
Refugee Welcome Centre
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The Refugee Welcome Center, an important outreach activity of Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Geneva, has been in operation since July 2022. The Center started in response to the influx of Ukrainian refugees, primarily women and children, arriving in Geneva at the outset of the war. Our vision is for the RWC to be a living project that responds to the needs and requests of the refugee population, regardless of nationality, so refugees feel safe, and settle into their new community, while building on the talents and initiatives of its volunteers. Our focus is initial integration through quality, community engagement and partnership, while refugees seek short/long term solutions. Although an initiative of the Church, all activities are secular in nature and there is no religious expectation or obligation. The Center is open to all.
French language classes
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Classes at the A1 and A2 levels every Wednesday afternoon led by a qualified French teacher for a maximum of 12 students. Small class size ensures quality interaction and learning.
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On Thursdays, Conversation Classes, often based on games or walks in town.
Refugee Coffee Hour
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Every Wednesday afternoon from 15h to17h and every Thursday afternoon from 14.30-18h, a warm, welcoming environment led by volunteers. Come for tea and coffee and stay for friendly conversation opportunities in French and English.
To volunteer, email: refugees@emmanuelchurch.ch
English for Adults
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Every Wednesday English classes are offered for free for refugee adults from 12-13h for beginners and from 13-14h for those at an A2+ level. These classes are offered in partnership with Proper Languages
English for Children​
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Every Thursday afternoon English classes are offered, for free, for refugee children:
in grades 3p-5p from 16.30-17.30h
and for those in 6p-8p from 17.30-18.30h.
These classes are offered in partnership with PEP English School.
Gentle yoga for refugee women
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On Tuesday afternoons, a gentle yoga class takes place on the 1st floor in the Grande Salle from 14h to15h. All levels, women only, no experience necessary. Open to refugee women for free. For others, a minimum donation of 10chf is kindly requested. For further information and to sign up, please contact Leslie Burgat at: info@leslieburgatcounselling.ch
Check the poster on the Home page for the latest details.
Wednesday Brunch
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Bi-monthly, on a Wednesday morning, we hold a brunch for all. Refugees and members of the church are welcome to meet to share in a snack and simply be sociable. This is an opportunity to understand what such an abrupt change in a refugee's life really means; a chance to help in unexpected ways, maybe just by a kind word.
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To find out more, email: refugees@emmanuelchurch.ch
French language singing group:
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Would you like to practice your French in a fun way through song? Join our singing group! On Tuesday evenings from 16h to 18h, Tamara will guide you while you learn new French songs. No experience necessary, open to all. To sign up, please contact Christine at: refugees@emmanuelchurch.ch
or join the Telegram group by clicking here.
English Immersion Summer Camp for refugee children
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Over 2 weeks during the summer months, refugee children 5-8 years old are invited to participate in an interactive English immersion camp led by a group of volunteers offering arts and crafts, music, cooking and more.
Easter Egg Hunt
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Another opportunity to have a children’s party in Spring filled with chocolate eggs and bunnies at a refugee residence.
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Christmas Gift Drive
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Once a year we ensure that all children residing at selected refugee residences receive gifts at a Christmas party.
Join in the Fun
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Are you interested in volunteering with us? Are you a refugee who could benefit from language classes or other activities we offer? Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us! We would be happy to talk to you.
Contact Christine Aghazarm: refugees@emmanuelchurch.ch
The Center’s main activities take place at Emmanuel Church’s Parish Hall at 3, rue de Monthoux, conveniently located in the heart of Paquis. See the details at the bottom of this page.
Our Partners
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The Refugee Welcome Center is funded and supported by the Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Geneva, Episcopal Relief and Development and the Episcopal Church Europe. The RWC works closely with local partners including: the Hospice Général at the Centre de Rigot, Holy Trinity Church, and Residence Camille Vidart; AMIC (l’Association des Médiatrices Interculturelles) and AIM (Association Intégration Mineurs et Familles Genève). If you are interested partnering with us, please get in touch.
