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NGO ULE concludes its IOM-funded activities

Utcáról Lakásba Egyesület (ULE) has made a lasting impact on the lives of Ukrainian refugees in Hungary through its recently concluded project, funded by IOM. Between September and December 2024, ULE provided critical support to 249 individuals from 74 households, offering rental aid, customized needs assessments, vouchers, and community events that fostered belonging and stability. This initiative is part of IOM’s broader efforts to support Ukrainians, which include accommodation assistance, case management, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), and other services fostering the social inclusion of refugees in Hungary.

ULE has not only offered material assistance to refugees but also provided emotional guidance throughout their journey. A mentorship program, inspired by international models, paired each family with a dedicated mentor. “In our organization, every team member mentors two or three families during this period,” explains Anna, a ULE mentor. “For the refugees we support, it gives a sense of reassurance to know they have someone to rely on for guidance with any challenges they face while living in a foreign country.” This initiative not only brought displaced people closer to their new communities but also created a mentor team where mentors could safely exchange their experiences.

“Besides the mentor program, we started a women’s group, which is a safe platform for female refugees to share their stories, whether good or bad, with those who understand,” Anna continues. “It was a long-held dream of ours to create such a group, and IOM’s contribution finally made it possible. We even created two separate groups to avoid large age gaps. It is inspiring to be there and hear all their stories - we talk a lot about self-respect and how to build our self-esteem, even while carrying heavy trauma,” she concludes.

 

Through partnerships, such as the one with ULE, we can reach more people who need us the most. In 2025, IOM will remain committed to easing the transition for Ukrainian refugees in Hungary.

This project is made available thanks to the generous support of German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO).