The social dimension of hospitality in Athens was at the forefront of the General Assembly of the Union of Hoteliers of Athens, Attica, and the Saronic Gulf, held yesterday, highlighting a sector that goes beyond economic activity to actively support vulnerable members of society. Data presented at the event demonstrated a stable network of solidarity that grows year by year, showing that Athens hotel industry considers social responsibility an integral part of its operations.
Hosting Women Victims of Violence Hotels in the Spotlight
The president of the Union, Eugenios Vasilikos, emphasized that the Union has already provided safe accommodation for 35 women who suffered abuse, underlining that the problem is widespread and requires ongoing mobilization. He stated that the Union will continue supporting such initiatives both through the association itself and within the framework of the national hotel federation.
His intervention highlighted the collaboration launched in May 2024 between the Union and the SOS 15900 hotline of the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family. Deputy Minister Elena Rapti, in her address, congratulated the Union on its work and announced that to date, 90 women victims of domestic violence and their children have been accommodated. She explained that hotline 15900 serves as a point of immediate assistance and that, in cases requiring urgent removal from abusive environments, collaboration with hoteliers allows rapid transfer of women to a safe space.
Honorary Recognition from the Hellenic Red Cross
At the same time, Dr. Antonios Avgerinos, president of the Hellenic Red Cross, awarded an honorary distinction to the Union president, recognizing the Unions contribution to blood donation and social cohesion. He referred to the wide range of public benefit activities conducted by the organization, emphasizing its goal of strengthening social solidarity, empowering volunteerism, and mobilizing civil society against marginalization.
Collaborations with Social Organizations Measurable Impact
Other organizations at the assembly also highlighted the Unions social initiatives.
The Boroume team, represented by Anna Kampouropoulou, recalled that since 2012, the collaboration has provided over 183,600 meals to charitable structures in Attica, linking the Union to efforts to reduce food waste.
Special mention was given to Hope Genesis, represented by Eva Niki Papadaki, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration with the Union to support childbirth for families in remote Greek islands and beyond. A moving video highlighted that since 2018, over 750 overnight stays have been provided to women from remote islands along with their companions, offering critical support during pregnancy and postpartum periods.
This assembly showcased how Athens hotels combine hospitality with concrete social action, contributing significantly to the welfare of vulnerable groups in the community.
