Thessaly 2023

In September 2023, Storms Daniel and Elias caused one of the most devastating natural disasters Greece has experienced in recent decades. Entire areas of Thessaly were submerged, leaving homes, schools, healthcare facilities, farmland and critical infrastructure severely damaged.

From the very first moment, Desmos activated its nationwide network of donors, partners and organisations, designing a comprehensive response that addressed the immediate, medium-term and long-term needs of the affected communities.

To support this large-scale effort, €250,000 was raised in monetary donations, along with more than €40,000 in in-kind donations and services. This remarkable mobilisation was made possible through the support of 18 companies, 63 individual donors, 25 community collection drives, 2 crowdfunding campaigns, and one logistics partner, enabling Desmos to respond quickly and effectively to the rapidly evolving needs on the ground.

Immediate Response

Our emergency response was built on close collaboration with organisations and volunteer teams already operating in the affected areas. Desmos worked alongside 15 organisations and institutions, as well as 10 volunteer forest firefighting and rescue teams, ensuring that needs were continuously assessed and resources directed where they were needed most.

At the same time, the Desmos team carried out 10 field visits and on-site assessments across the affected municipalities, designing targeted interventions throughout Thessaly and across the four affected regional units of Karditsa, Larissa, Magnesia and Trikala.

As part of the emergency humanitarian response, 96 pallets of essential relief supplies were distributed, addressing the urgent needs of residents, volunteers and partner organisations.

Among the items provided were:

Medium-Term Recovery

Once the immediate emergency needs had been addressed, Desmos shifted its focus towards restoring everyday life and supporting the recovery of homes, local infrastructure and essential services.

As part of these efforts, we provided:

Long-Term Recovery

Desmos’ commitment to Thessaly did not end with the initial recovery efforts. We continued investing in projects with lasting social impact, strengthening education, healthcare and support for the region’s most vulnerable residents.

Through the “Desmos for Schools” programme, infrastructure improvements and equipment were provided to 16 schools, helping create safer and better learning environments for hundreds of students.

In parallel, the Palamas Health Centre in Karditsa was equipped with essential medical equipment. Through the Mobile Life programme, implemented in partnership with Emfasis Non-Profit, we also provided food assistance to elderly residents living in remote villages across Thessaly.