Refugee Welcome Center
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 welcome, safe, and settle into their new community. We also build on the talents and initiatives of its volunteers, both refugees and non-refugees. Our focus is initial integration and hospitality through quality, community engagement, and partnership. All activities are secular in nature, and there is no religious expectation or obligation. The Center is open to all!
French Language Classes
Classes at the A1 and A2 levels every Wednesday afternoon. On Thursdays, Conversation classes 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.
Volunteer with Us
Are you interested in volunteering with us? Are you a refugee who could benefit from our language classes or other activities? Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us! We would be happy to talk to you.
Contact: 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.
Support Our Work
The Refugee Welcome Center relies completely on donor funding in order to operate. It is currently funded by the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe through Episcopal Relief and Development, the Capital Group, and through generous private donations such as yours. If you would like to support our work by making a financial contribution, please do so by:
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, including: the Hospice Général at the Centre de Rigot, Camille Vidart and Ferney, Holy Trinity Church, PEP Languages, Proper Languages, and AMIC (l’Association des Médiatrices Interculturelles). If you are interested in partnering with us, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
