Budapest, 13 September 2024 – Tens of thousands of refugees from Ukraine remain in Hungary, in urgent need of assistance. To address this, the Municipality of Budapest, in partnership with IOM and UNHCR, established the Budapest Helps! Information and Community Centre in September 2022. 

Since its opening, the Centre has provided a safe space for refugees, offering reliable information and fostering a sense of community. It has served thousands of Ukrainians and Third Country Nationals, helping them navigate life in Hungary. 

“Whether through information provision, language classes, services supporting their well-being, or art and other community programs, we strive to create a space where people feel empowered to become active, engaged members of their new communities,” - emphasizes Evelin Verhas, the Head of Programmes and Liaison at IOM hungary. “Promoting social inclusion is one of our fundamental goals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to fully participate and thrive in their new environment.” 

During this two-year period, nearly 3,500 people have received reliable information and counselling through IOM, fostering a sense of belonging within their temporary residences. As an information hub for displaced Ukrainians in Budapest, IOM’s staff frequently responds to urgent inquiries about navigating life in Hungary. Additionally, IOM has offered a variety of educational and recreational programmes, with nearly 300 individuals participating in activities such as language and art classes. Mental health and psychosocial support have also been a key focus, with over 270 individuals benefiting from IOM's specialized training and support initiatives. 

“None of this would have been possible without the support of our dedicated partners. In collaboration with UNHCR, the Budapest Municipality, and other organizations, we have built a space where people can heal, grow, and rebuild their lives,” - Evelin concludes. 

The place holds memories of ups and downs and represents unity for Ukrainian community in Hungary. For them, it is a place of understanding and personal growth. 

"Everything is awesome here, and the people you meet here are all positive and help with everything,” shares Maryna a beneficiary from Ukraine. “I go to the centre to attend Hungarian language classes, and I really like the teaching method; it’s very good. I wanted to learn Hungarian to understand my new surroundings and the people around me and not feel isolated.” 

The centre is committed to helping refugees overcome challenges and access opportunities that support their socio-economic inclusion in Hungary. In line with this mission, IOM Hungary continues to assist Ukrainian refugees to rebuild their lives and strengthen their resilience.