The RISE project, implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Lithuania, continues to promote the community sponsorship model across the country. This time, the RISE team visited the city of Šiauliai, where they took part in a meeting with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and municipal representatives.

The team participated in the NGO Breakfast event organized by the Šiauliai City Municipality. During the meeting, representatives from 20 different NGOs and community organizations engaged in meaningful discussions and shared their experiences on supporting war refugees, while exploring new ways to strengthen integration efforts at the local level.

The RISE team introduced the community sponsorship model, which connects local residents with newcomers and fosters warm, human-centered relationships. The project aims to empower individuals and groups to actively contribute to creating a friendly and safe environment for all.

The Šiauliai visit marked another important step in building inclusive and supportive communities where everyone has the opportunity to feel safe and welcomed.

The project is implemented by the International Organization for Migration in cooperation with the Reception and Integration Agency, as well as academic partners from Roma Tre University (Italy) and Odisee University of Applied Sciences (Belgium).

RISE is funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (2021–2027).

We sincerely thank NGO Coordinator Danguolė Martinkienė for the smooth organization of the meeting and warm collaboration, and Vice Mayor Justinas Švėgžda for his active engagement.