Soros extends Greek charities

According to the Guardian, George Soros plans to expand his charities in Greece with the development of Solidarity Centers all over the country. Starting with Thessaloniki, he plans to establish these centers as NGOs (non-government organizations) with various functions. These will range from free gas to schools and donations to orphanages to providing support for homeless hostels.

Given that his previous gas donation received mixed reviews, some amount of controversy is expected. When he offered to donate free gas to Thessaloniki schools, many PTAs (Parent Teachers Associations) refused the offer (others in the city of Naousa were grateful). Regardless, Mr. Soros can count on the support of Thessaloniki mayor Yiannis Boutaris, who supports these initiatives, urging Greek millionaires to follow the multimillionaire's lead.

The Guardian report, paints a bleak picture of the country. It points out that Greece is a non functioning state with few infrastructures and services due to austerity policies. It claims that three million Greeks have no access to health services and school budgets dropped by 60%.

In this environment, initiatives such as the one by the Soros Institute can only be of assistance. Greece doesn't have a big tradition of viable NGOs and masses of population are in dire need of help. The Soros Solidarity Centers will be in a position to offer it. The Guardian reports that the first center in Thessaloniki will also be offering medical coverage and legal aid to people in need and the first few days since the announcement applications for assistance have soared.