NOSTOS is happy to present the first activity inspired by the suggestions of Dr. Stefan White and a group of postgraduate students of the Manchester School of Architecture Projects, Centre of Spatial Inclusion that visited one of our facilities XENIA Athens. A variety of plants has arrived in XENIA Athens and we are ready to plant olive trees, pomegranate trees, herbs and vegetables on our roof. On Monday 13, February 2017 we will start planting!

The aim of their visit was to: explore the area, understand the socio-spatial dynamics and propose small scale plans towards the upgrading of the area and the vision of promotion of engagement and inclusion. The event was held as a part of the Accommodation for Relocation project, as funded by the EU and supported by UNHCR. This event was part of an effort by the Accommodation for Relocation Project to integrate the refugee population within the local communities and offer something back to the area that hosts the facilities.

Our roof has an impressive view to the Acropolis and we hope that this activity will inspire our residents to participate in the clearing and planting but in the looking after of the plants as well. Our aim is to provide interesting means of socialisation to the residents and an excuse to visit our roof and enjoy the sun and view. Moreover we hope to provide our kitchen with fresh parsley and dill as well as green salad for the meals prepared. As spring is approaching we hope to expand the variety of herbs and vegetables we will be able to provide.

Teams of interested residents have been created for the planting process and our aim is to create teams that will rotate the duties of watering, weeding and cutting when necessary.