Important Announcement! Atina Launches the Initiative "Together We Thrive"

In its continuous and direct fight against human trafficking, the NGO Atina proudly announces the launch of the initiative “Together we thrive – Assisted Housing and Open Club Initiative for the Social Inclusion of Victims of Human Trafficking and Exploitation,” which is being implemented under the EU-funded program “Support to Social Housing and Active Inclusion” financed by the European Union and carried out by UNOPS, the United Nations Office for Project Services.

The “Together We Thrive” initiative represents a pioneering effort, not only in Serbia but also in the region. It is the culmination of Atina’s decades-long commitment to improving various aspects of the lives of individuals who have survived human trafficking and exploitation, or those at higher risk, through the creation of comprehensive support services based on their real needs. Driven by the belief that together we can achieve more, the initiative will address various challenges faced by victims of human trafficking, with a special focus on sustainable housing and community support. This initiative is specifically designed to respond to the needs of victims and people at risk of trafficking, sexual and labor exploitation, forced begging, forced criminal activities, forced marriages, and especially young people leaving the child protection system, people with disabilities, women victims of domestic violence, and the Roma community.

The initiative is dedicated to ensuring housing and innovative community services for victims of human trafficking. Together, we can build a future where everyone has equal opportunities to reach their full potential. The central part of the initiative involves the development of a sustainable housing support system and accommodations specifically tailored for individuals who have survived or are at risk of human trafficking and various forms of exploitation and violence. By purchasing and adapting an infrastructure facility, Atina will create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can rebuild their lives with dignity.

Given that this initiative focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment, in addition to housing, Atina will further develop, alongside the licensed supported housing service, the innovative community service called the “Open Club,” which provides active inclusion measures tailored to the individual needs of the target group. The innovative “Open Club” service is based on the idea of an active community, aiming to provide customized active inclusion measures by addressing the various needs of survivors and those at risk. The multi-dimensional approach applied by Atina seeks to strengthen the sense of belonging and promote the principles of mutual empowerment for the service users. In this way, “Together We Progress” not only provides shelter but also serves as a pathway to recovery and independence.

The “Together We Thrive” initiative will make a real difference in the lives of 125 families, including around 300 individuals who will benefit from supported housing services and the “Open Club.” These services will cover at least 200 women and girls, as well as 100 boys and men. Through an active focus on supported housing, economic empowerment, and social inclusion, Atina will once again reaffirm its commitment to breaking the cycle of exploitation and exclusion of the most vulnerable among us.

We thank the UNOPS office and all the members of the EU SHAI program for this life-changing opportunity and invite everyone to join us in making this vital change. Let us build a future where everyone has equal opportunities to reach their full potential!