Founded in 2017 by refugees, HELP (Health, Education, and Learning Program) for Refugees is a small but mighty community-based learning center in South Jakarta, Indonesia. We provide education and healthcare services to over 150 refugee children, youth, and adults every year. HELP’s mission is to be a safe space for asylum seekers and refugees of all ages and nationalities to continue their education and seek support, whilst providing a feeling of belonging and a greater sense of purpose. We respond to the need of the growing refugee community in Jakarta as many wait years to be resettled, amid limited access to the most basic services, including education and healthcare. Highlights of our work so far! >> Over 500 children, youth and adults have accessed our education programs since 2017. In the Jakarta refugee community, many parents regard our kindergarten as the best preschool program available for their children. >> Although 50% of refugees in Indonesia come from Afghanistan, HELP is proud to have students and volunteer teachers from over 12 nationalities. >> HELP’s English courses have been critical in preparing refugees as non-native English speakers for future study, work and resettlement. HELP students have also learned Mathematics, Science and Bahasa Indonesia as well as workshops on topics on women’s health. >> In times of crisis, we have coordinated and distributed basic necessities including food packages, and girls sanitation packages. We have also hosted ad hoc health clinics. >> HELP is a bridge between the refugee and Indonesian communities in Jakarta. Through social media influencers and our volunteering program we raise awareness and understanding of different cultures.
