Why this project?
From Gregory C. Pappas, President & Founder
When the Greek economic crisis plummeted to abysmal levels in 2012, the foundation and its thousands of North American supporters had to respond in a resounding way — just as previous generations of diaspora Greeks have done to support their motherland during past crises. Thus, Project Hope emerged, serving as a vehicle for our dynamic base of followers to raise funds and awareness for this cause — but in a unique way. We wanted to empower our supporters to leverage their creativity, talent and resources and ultimately provide much-needed humanitarian relief for the people of Greece.
Philanthropy shaped by people and purpose
Project Hope for Greece connects the generosity and creativity of the Greek diaspora with vulnerable people and trusted organizations throughout Greece.
Launched in 2012 during the Greek economic crisis, the project invites supporters to turn their own ideas, talents and communities into meaningful humanitarian support. This grassroots approach has helped fund charities, schools, family services and individual acts of care across Greece.
To maintain transparency for donors, the Foundation follows a documented process for evaluating recipients and distributing support. See how we donate to Greece.
The work continues
Recent Project Hope support builds on more than a decade of partnerships and direct assistance across Greece.
A home near a child’s bedside
Two $12,000 gifts created a $24,000 commitment sponsoring a family apartment at Agia Irini Children’s Hospital for 2026.
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Tools for learning and creativity
A $5,000 grant equipped the 7th Experimental Elementary School with interactive screens, tablets and musical instruments.
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Supporting families through treatment
A $10,000 grant supported final construction and equipment costs for the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Agia Sophia Children’s Hospital.
Read the full storyFocused action for urgent needs
#ChildrenOfGreece
The campaign built awareness and support for Greece-based organizations serving vulnerable children and families.
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Dipla Sou
The Foundation launched an awareness and fundraising campaign supporting Greece’s LGBTQI+ Helpline 11528 – By Your Side.
Explore the campaignProject Hope through the years
Building a network of care
Support reached Smile of the Child, Desmos, Boroume, Animal Zone International, ELEPAP, Kivotos Tou Kosmou and the Metropolis of Kydonias & Apokoronou.
Explore this chapterPeople helping people
Project Hope supported Mama Maria of Samos, families affected by the Vrysa earthquake and Lesvos fishermen who helped rescue refugees at sea.
Explore this chapter#ChildrenOfGreece
Support reached ELIZA, The HOME Project, HOPEgenesis, Ark of the World, METAdrasi and SOS Children’s Villages.
Explore this chapterDeepening partnerships
Project Hope continued through support for Dipla Sou, education in Hania and an expanding partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities Hellas.
See recent impactHumanity in action
Mama Maria
During the refugee crisis, Mama Maria transformed her taverna into a place of food and shelter. Project Hope facilitated a six-month program, including a $10,000 grant, that helped keep her pantry full.
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Thanos and Kostas
The two fishermen helped save refugees at sea. After a 2017 snowstorm destroyed their fishing boats, an anonymous donor provided funds through a coordinated effort to repair them and restore their livelihoods.
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Relief after the earthquake
After the devastating Lesvos earthquake, almost $80,000 raised helped provide school supplies for 37 children, food support for 40 families and a holiday gathering for 50 children and their parents.
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Support for trusted charities
Project Hope grants have supported organizations including Kivotos Tou Kosmou, SOS Children’s Villages, HOPEgenesis, METAdrasi and Desmos—extending help through established local partners.
Our giving process
Souda Animal Shelter
The Foundation created a channel for supporters in the United States to assist the shelter’s animal-welfare work and shared the stories of animals that found permanent homes in Crete and beyond.
Explore the shelter storyAmbassadors of Hope
These supporters went beyond a traditional gift—using milestones, gatherings, creative work and personal networks to contribute or raise $1,000 or more for Project Hope.
Marina Tsirambidis
Made a charitable donation with part of the gift money she received upon graduating from high school in 2019.
Nora Presti & Anthie Zairis
Organized a Taverna Night in Baltimore.
Steve Kriaris & Thalia Wine
Created a $1-per-bottle promotion in Ontario.
George Psomas
Hosted his birthday party for Project Hope.
Katina & Chris Tsarnas
Hosted a party at Souvlaki GR in New York City.
Melina Kanakaredes & Peter Constantinides
Longtime supporters of the Greek America Foundation and Project Hope.
Vasili & Dimitri Manikas
Created a short film whose box-office proceeds raised $4,000 for Project Hope.
Project Hope has always been powered by people who find a personal way to help. Contact the Foundation to discuss an idea or community initiative.
