There are lots of people in Germany who help refugees when they arrive. They are active in refugee committees, work or helper groups or clubs. They are involved in giving out clothes in the reception centres ("Erstaufnahmeeinrichtung"), they can help with administrative formalities, volunteer teaching German, organise leisure activities and support you in your search for a flat. Volunteering means that the helpers are not paid for their activities. They are just happy to help you.

Over 600 initiatives for refugees

The independent human rights organisation ProAsyl has compiled a map outlining more than 600 initiatives on its website. You can use this to find the contact details of an initiative near you.

You can find an overview of ProAsyl refugee aid initiatives here.