A place to connect, learn and feel welcome
The Refugee Welcome Center Supports refugees as they settle into life in Geneva through activities, learning, and community.
About the Refugee Welcome Center
The Refugee Welcome Center began in July 2022 in response to the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in Geneva. Today, it is a living project that welcomes refugees of all nationalities. Our focus is initial integration and hospitality through quality, community engagement, and partnership. All activities are secular in nature, and the Center is open to all.
Our Activities
Connecting, learning, and building community together
French Classes
Classes at the A1, A2, B1 and B2 levels every Wednesday afternoon. On Thursdays, Conversation classes aimed at the A2-B2 levels are interactive and feature visits in Geneva. Both are led by a qualified French teacher for a maximum of 12 students. Small class size ensures quality interaction and learning.
Yoga
On Tuesday afternoons, a gentle yoga class is held on the 1st floor of the Grande Salle from 14:00 to 15:00. Suitable for all levels, this class is for women only, with no prior experience necessary. Open to refugee women for free. For others, a minimum donation of 10 CHF is kindly requested.
Summer Camps
Over the course of two weeks during the summer months, refugee children aged 4-8 years old are invited to participate in an interactive English immersion camp led by a group of volunteers, offering activities such as arts and crafts, music, cooking, and more. Older children from 9-15 years old participate in English classes followed by an outdoor activity.
Coffee Hour
Every Wednesday afternoon from 15:00 to 17:00 and every Thursday afternoon from 13:30 to 18:00, a warm and welcoming environment is provided, led by volunteers. Come for tea and coffee and stay for friendly conversation opportunities in French and English.
Wednesday Brunch
Bi-monthly, on a Wednesday morning, we hold a brunch for all. Refugees and members of the church are welcome to meet and share brunch together, fostering a sense of community and sociability. This is an opportunity to build community and help.
Christmas Gift Drive
Once a year, our Christmas Gift Drive brings a little extra joy to refugee children in our community. Through the generosity of donors and volunteers, we provide Christmas gifts for children living in selected refugee residences, which are distributed during a special Christmas celebration.
English Classes
Every Wednesday for adults from 12:00 - 13:00 for beginners. Every Thursday afternoon for children. Grades P3 TO P5 from 16:345 - 17:45 and from Grades P6 TO P8 from 17:45 - 18:45. All classes are free of charge and are in partnership with PEP languages.
Sewing/Knitting Circle
Every Wednesday from 10.30-12.30 learn to knit or sew. There is also an option to make or have minor repairs made at a solidarity price.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support our community.
Support Our Work
Bank details
Church Account: Fondation de la Chapelle d'Emmanuel, Banque Cantonal de Genève, 1211 Genève 2
IBAN: CH93 0078 8000 0506 1287 7 – CHF account
IBAN: CH39 0078 8000 0507 1017 0 – EUR account
BIC/SWIFT: BCGECHGGXXX (for both accounts)
Our Partners
The Refugee Welcome Center works closely with local partners to serve and support our community.
Interested in partnering with us? Contact us at refugees@emmanuelchurch.ch