Description
The Social Pharmacy (SP) of Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini is a community-driven initiative designed to provide essential pharmaceutical services to vulnerable populations in the region.
For more than a decade, this project addresses the healthcare needs of those who are financially disadvantaged, uninsured, or otherwise unable to access necessary medications by upcycling donated old medication, embodying the principles of a circular economy. This not only prevents a vast amount of waste but also reuses resources beneficially for people and the environment.
The primary objectives of the Social Pharmacy are to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their financial status, have access to essential medications, to raise awareness for the unsustainable waste of medication, and to foster a sense of community and solidarity by supporting the healthcare needs of the most vulnerable.
The target population primarily includes struggling individuals and families, uninsured or underinsured persons, elderly residents on fixed incomes, and refugees and migrants in need of medical support. The pharmacy operates on a volunteer-based model, leveraging the expertise of local pharmacists, healthcare professionals, and community volunteers. Medications are sourced exclusively through donations from individuals, pharmaceutical companies, and local pharmacies, ensuring a sustainable supply chain.
Another essential aspect of the Social Pharmacy is its civil protection character by ensuring preparedness for natural catastrophes or market shortages. With a stock of around 16,000 drugs and even more medical materials, which are publicly browsable, the pharmacy provides state and private healthcare providers the opportunity to find drugs they can't source elsewhere. During crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Social Pharmacy played a crucial role by supplying healthcare providers with masks, gloves, and other necessary supplies.
The Social Pharmacy of Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini is a vital resource for the community, providing essential healthcare services to those in need. By promoting health equity, fostering a spirit of solidarity, and adhering to principles of sustainability, the Social Pharmacy not only improves individual health outcomes and less chemical waste but also strengthens the community as a whole.
Where in Europe am I?
We are located right between Greece’s highest mountain and the endless coastline of the Thermaic Gulf in Katerini, Pieria, with all its rich leisure opportunities nearby. Here, in the span of just one day, one can hike in the lush forests of Mount Olympus, with its captivating trails and mythological allure, and afterwards explore diverse coastal wonders near Plaka, Litohoro, from fine sandy stretches to remote stone and gravel beaches, offering serenity and natural beauty. Katerini's own blue flag beaches in Paralia also provide an easily and quickly accessible getaway by bicycle from Kapnikos Stathmos.
For those interested in the cultural and historical legacy of the region, the Vergina Museum in close by Veria is a must-see, preserving the legacy of Philipp II and Alexander the Great through ancient tombs and opulent artifacts. Another obligatory stop are the gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora, where spirituality and architecture harmonize amidst stunning rock formations, as well as the Dion Museum, an important site of Zeus' worship.
For a stunning view and idyllic atmosphere Litohoro Village, the gateway to Mount Olympus, welcomes nature enthusiasts and connects them to picturesque landscapes, while those, looking for a pulsating urban flair will find everything they long for in Thessaloniki's blend of history and modernity, thriving with dynamic nightlife, museums, and cultural diversity.
Who is organizing it?
Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK) is an independent organization with roots dating back to 2007 when a citizens' initiative formed to address societal challenges. Since then, our volunteering group consistently initiated and executed projects and volunteering activities to raise awareness and support individuals in need, irrespective of their cultural, ethnic, or religious background.
After the economic hardships during the financial crisis prompted a need for more warehouse space, in 2011 we occupied and restored one of the few abandoned historical venues in our city: the former tobacco research institute Kapnikos Stathmos.
In 2019, recognizing the importance of formalizing our efforts, we established a non-profit organization and named it after the historical venue Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini (KSK). This organization has since been the ground and roof of various initiatives focused on environmental protection, social solidarity, and unconditional human rights, guided by core values such as social responsibility, cooperation, inclusion, and respect for individual rights and diversity.
KSK manages more than 19 diverse projects, starting with our first core activity named "Giving a day of my summer to the forest," which aims to protect forests from wildfires with active involvement from local communities. Despite challenges, KSK operates independently of municipal or government support and continues to foster civil engagement, solidarity, volunteering, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
Through our work, we bridge different societal groups and cultural entities, striving to enhance societal cohesion and address pressing challenges such as climate change and economic disparities. Our commitment to shared European values of equality and human rights contributes to peace and solidarity within the European Union.
What are the exact dates of the activity?
The Social Pharmacy is running throughout the year (except state holidays). Because of this, volunteers interested to join have a great deal of flexibility regarding a project start and end date most suitable to their needs.
How is it organized?
At Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini, volunteer work is organized within a vibrant living community. All tasks, events, and special dates are discussed and assessed at the community table, both metaphorically and literally, with the weekly plan displayed on the community board. This inclusive approach ensures that all volunteers, regardless of their specific roles, are interconnected and adaptable to the community's needs and involved and aware of the bigger picture.
With this, volunteers from the Social Goods Distribution also assist in the Social pharmacy and vice versa, while, of course, all together take responsibility for the facility.
When and how many hours do I work?
In principle, volunteers work from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm with a lunchbreak from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
During special events the dates and times might vary, without exceeding 30 hours per week with two consecutive free days as weekend.
Additionally, every volunteer is entitled to optional vacation days (2 days for every month).
What’s the weather like?
Katerini enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, temperatures often rise above 30°C, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 5°C. The majority of the annual precipitation occurs during this season, bringing cooler and wetter conditions. The pleasant weather year-round makes Katerini an inviting destination for both residents and visitors.
Will I need special clothes?
There is no need for special clothes, we encourage everyone to wear what he or she feels comfortable in. As many tasks involve outdoor activities, participants should bring practical clothing that can withstand getting dirty in their suitcases.
Nevertheless, we strongly suggest to include optional swimsuits for the beach and stable shoes for hiking in the mountains.
Do I have to take something like bed sheets or my laptop from home?
Everything related to accommodation will be provided by us, meaning that neither towels nor bedsheets have to be taken from home. The same goes for shampoos, soap and other basic goods.
Participants may choose to bring their laptop for their spare time or to use it for some of the tasks, but it is totally optional.
Can I wash my clothes there?
Every volunteer will have free access to our washing machine on site and plenty of space to dry the clothes. The cleaning agents will also be provided by us for free.
Where will I sleep?
All participants are accommodated in our volunteering apartments on the venue. The apartments feature two and three spacious bedrooms, each 14m², furnished with two bunk beds and accommodating up to 4 people. Each bedroom includes closets and balconies facing east, offering pleasant views. The apartments also include a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom each, while benefitting from central heating, ensuring a warm and comfortable environment.
Renovated in 2022, the apartments now feature new insulation for enhanced energy efficiency and comfort. Additionally, there are recently built sanitary rooms and bathrooms nearby for convenience.
How about sanitary facilities?
The main sanitary facilities, located next to the apartments, were constructed in 2019, reflecting their recent build and contemporary design. In 2022, we added four individual shower rooms, further enhancing convenience and privacy for our users.
There are separate men's and women's bathrooms, each equipped with multiple toilets, along with five shower rooms to ensure availability, even during peak times.
What will I eat and who is preparing the food?
Outside, there is our well-equipped kitchen, "Fournin," complete with a stone oven and a large dining table, serving as the heart of the living community. This kitchen is the designated area for all cooking activities, fostering the living community sense.
Food at Kapnikos Stathmos Katerini is organized within the living community context, with volunteers typically managing their own cooking arrangements for the weekends. They have access to our well-stocked warehouse and can additionally select groceries off a large list including fresh produce, meat, and dairy weekly. During the working week, the organization provides cooked mediterranean meals, ensuring a mix of self-prepared and provided options for a wholesome and enjoyable culinary experience.
What happens if I get sick or injured?
If a participant falls ill or any other emergency arises, support is always available. KSK staff, the coordinator and the mentor are always accessible and nearby to contact.
Furthermore, our organization has a network of trained and experienced healthcare professionals on standby to provide assistance when necessary.
I arrived at the airport Thessaloniki. What do I do now?
The journey to KSK from the airport is quite straightforward using public transportation.
Right in front of the airport, there's a bus stop for the X1 Bus, which departs every half hour (please refer to the schedule [https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/category-
detailed/ctg_id-37/nd_id-425]). Tickets can be conveniently purchased at the counter for 1.8 € in cash. Travelers take the X1 bus until it reaches the very final stop, known as the “KTEL Makedonia," easily recognizable by its distinctive giant dome building.
Upon arriving at the "Bus station (KTEL) Makedonia," find the "Pieria" Counter, situated to the right from the entrance. Here, tickets to Katerini, costing approximately 6€, can be obtained (more details available [https://ktelpierias.gr/en/thessaloniki-2/]).
The KTEL Bus will transport passengers directly to the KTEL station in Katerini, where the KSK team will be waiting to offer assistance and a warm welcome
