The Birth of an Idea: A Vision for Change
The story of Ithaca Laundry began in 2016, when 3 students (Thanos Spiliopoulos, Fanis Tsonas, and Andili Rachouti) decided to bring a powerful idea to life. Inspired by a similar initiative in Australia, they set out to create the first mobile laundry service for the homeless not just in Greece, but in Europe. In April 2016, Ithaca’s mobile laundry unit hit the streets of Athens for the first time, launching what would become an ongoing mission to provide clean clothes to those in need. By January 2017, Ithaca began operating daily, growing both in the number of people it helped and the scope of its services.
Fast forward less than a decade, and the Ithaca team is greater than ever, as is the work they do. From those early days, when resources were tight and their team small, Ithaca has grown into a comprehensive support system for vulnerable groups, constantly expanding its outreach and impact in the community.
What makes Ithaca Laundry’s work truly extraordinary isn’t just the act of washing clothes; it’s the dignity it restores. For many, the idea of fresh, clean clothes might seem like a small luxury. But, for those without a home, those considered homeless, often invisible and struggling, as well as those living in overcrowded conditions or facing challenges such as lack of access to basic necessities like electricity and water, doing laundry can be an overwhelming challenge. Ithaca’s services go far beyond cleanliness, they are offering people an essential form of respect. It’s a heartfelt gesture, simple yet profoundly powerful, that says: “We see you and you matter.”
Ithaca Laundry doesn’t stop at laundry. They also collaborate with other organizations to distribute food to those in need. The individuals that came to take a bag of food were not only homeless individuals—their were elderly citizens who struggle to cook for themselves, people living in cramped homes with too many others, and even those who, despite having a roof over their heads, are financially strained and just need a bit of support to get through a tough time.
The beauty of Ithaca’s work is that there’s no discrimination: help is offered to anyone who needs it. Whether someone is coming for clean clothes or a bag of food, the help is provided with open arms, no questions asked. From the moment the Ithaca van rolls up at 10 AM, people are already there, waiting in line with bags of dirty laundry in hand. Many of them arrive early, not just for clean clothes, but for the sense of community that Ithaca provides.
As we observed, the connection between Ithaca and the people it serves is palpable. The gratitude in the eyes of those who take a bag of food, or get their laundry done, is unforgettable. The visitors are welcomed warmly, and as we stood there, it was impossible not to notice how every person who crossed our path smiled, waved, or said hello—a clear sign of the sense of belonging they feel. The sense of hope and appreciation was evident in every interaction.
What struck us even more profoundly was how familiar the staff were with the people they serve—they knew them by name and vice versa. Ithaca’s impact is so needed and so beautifully embraced that it planted a seed of hope and gratitude in our hearts, reminding us of the power of compassion and community.
Social Support & Job Counseling: Going Beyond Laundry
In 2021 Ithaca launched a social service to provide psycho-social support to vulnerable groups, assisting with everything from medical appointments to navigating the complexities of daily life. Many people visiting Ithaca don’t just need clean clothes; they need someone to help them reconnect with the systems and resources that can help them rebuild their lives. The social worker is there to lend a helping hand and offer solutions to these everyday challenges.
Moreover, Ithaca Laundry is a place where collaboration thrives. They work with other NGOs and organizations to ensure that each individual receives the support they need. It’s a network of care, a reminder that when we come together, we can make a lasting impact.
In addition to the laundry services and social support, Ithaca also runs a program for employment reintegration. Many of the staff members are people who were once homeless themselves, now given the opportunity to work in a supportive and structured environment. Through this program, they gain skills, experience, and confidence that can help them re-enter the job market. To date, 26 people have managed to reenter the job market and gain equal opportunities to find a job again. This sense of continuity is invaluable; it shows that Ithaca is not just a temporary fix, but a sustainable solution in helping people reclaim their lives and their independence.
And now, it becomes evident what lies behind the name Ithaca. It's about the journey. The journey of reintegration and recovery, much like the poet Konstantinos Kavafis wrote: "The journey is more important than the destination." It’s not just about providing food or washing clothes but helping people rebuild their lives, step by step. We listened to stories of individuals who lost everything in an instant, and yet, they were standing tall with the support of Ithaca.
Ithaca Laundry's Weekly Schedule
Ithaca Laundry operates at different locations throughout the week to serve vulnerable communities. On Mondays, their services are available at the Club for UNESCO – Piraeus and Islands (Mikalis 51, Piraeus) from 10:00 to 14:00. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they are stationed at Koumoundourou Square, from 10:00 to 17:00. Wednesdays are dedicated to the Community Center “Cheirapsies” in Corinth, where the team is present from 11:00 to 16:00. On Fridays you can find them from 11:00 to 14:00 again at the Club for UNESCO – Piraeus and Islands (Kotyoron 35, Piraeus). Through this rotating schedule, Ithaca ensures access to its mobile laundry services in various key areas where the need is greatest.
Every month, at Koumoundourou Square, the Pop-Village arrives to create a warm, welcoming space of care and human connection. It’s a day where all three pillars of Ithaca’s mission combine in one meaningful event. Visitors come together to exchange smiles, thoughts, feelings, and experiences, creating a sense of belonging and support. The volunteers and staff of Ithaca join forces with others to offer a variety of services, ensuring that everyone who walks through the door feels valued and cared for:
What truly stood out to us during our visit was the youth and energy of the team behind Ithaca Laundry. These young individuals—many of whom started out as interns or volunteers—are dedicated to the cause and passionate about making a real difference in the world. It’s inspiring to see the next generation taking on such important work for the greater good. It’s a reminder that hope isn’t just about the future; it’s about what young people are doing today to create a better tomorrow.
We spoke with some of them, and the conversation was nothing short of inspiring. The common question we asked all of them was, "What made you want to work here and do this?" And the answer was always the same: "What we take back, because giving only makes you richer." It may be a cliché, but it's one of those truths that resonates deeply. Each team member had their own unique perspective and background. Sure, they came from different academic paths, but the common thread was their deep willingness to do good.
For example, Michalis' drive to help stems from his childhood, as his siblings are part of a vulnerable group. Marille started as a intern and simply couldn’t stop helping; it is kinda addictive. We also met Erica, who had just started her internship at Ithaca only three days before. Despite being so new, she had already felt the love and support that surrounds this beautiful action—there’s a certain energy here that you can’t ignore.
And then, there’s Konstantinos, who is responsible for the daily operations and the welcoming and service of Ithaca’s beneficiaries. He once found himself in a difficult place, but with Ithaca’s support, he made his way back. We witnessed firsthand the power of love and care for others. The entire atmosphere was filled with a sense of mutual respect and a deep commitment to giving back. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when people genuinely care for one another.
In closing, we'd like to leave you with something Thanos, a volunteer at Ithaca team shared with us: "We are all potentially homeless." It’s a reminder that life can change in an instant, and it’s through empathy and community that we can make the world a better place for all.
I was thinking the other day about the ‘expat experience’, and all the ways that it impacts each of us. In particular I was thinking that the expat experience has a way of bridging social gaps that would otherwise prevent people from socializing together or even ever meeting each other.
Wherever we’ve come from, whatever our social or cultural background, showing up on the doorstep of a new country creates challenges and experiences that are at once difficult and self-affirming. And sharing those challenges – laughing or crying about them – brings people together in unexpected ways.
The other night, at the rooftop party of XpatAthens, I had the pleasure of meeting a bunch of new people – from a surprising range of backgrounds – who all shared this major thing in common. And it was great.
• The American accountant who moved to Greece on a whim, and now never wants to leave.
• The South African consultant who travels around the world but calls Greece home.
• The Greek-Canadian who discovered a passion for writing guidebooks – for children.
• The singer who lives in Las Vegas but can’t wait to return to Athens.
• The young Greek guy, raised in the UK, who now works as a diplomat.
• The Brit who fell in and out of love – and stayed.
• The Australian yoga instructor who chose Athens over Melbourne.
• The young Greek girl who is moving to New York to study English – and who will have the same expat experience over there.
On the surface, these people may have nothing in common. But one step below the surface, we all have so much shared experience. And this is the level that counts – the level where we are all, at the end of the day, more similar than we first assumed…
Until next week,
Jack
At Mariano, “tsipouro time” is taken very seriously and veterans will deeply appreciate the 12 fine-tasting spirits that perfectly accompany the wide range of mezedes. Mezedes from the land and sea, handmade and hand-picked, as well as juicy burgers with sautéed vegetables or seasonal vegetables, boneless pork chops and excellent sausage plus 2 fresh salads.
And great prices - less than € 20 per person. Apart from the wide selection of tsipouro and similar tastes, the 20 wine labels and ‘homemade’ Moschofilero and Aghiorghitiko from Corinth offered in a glass make those who love experimenting, as well as the Greek meze culture, feel at home.
Address: Agiou Georgiou 59, Chalandri
Tel: 2106824224
Translated by Eleni Georgiou
Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!
Chinese construction magnate, Yan Jiehe, is turning his gaze toward the Greek market — characterized by many as risky due to the latest stormy political and economic developments — saying that he is on the hunt for investment opportunities in Greece.
Yan Jiehe is the founder of China’s largest private sector company by revenues and has amassed one of the country’s largest fortunes since establishing China Pacific Construction Group (CPCG) in 1995, making him China’s seventh-richest man. It should be noted that last year CPCG, which builds public infrastructure, was ranked 166th on Fortune’s list of the world’s 500 biggest companies, while last week the tycoon confirmed he is chasing local governments for unpaid bills.
At the same time, Mr. Jiehe acknowledged that CPCG is chasing the adventure in risky overseas markets. “I will soon go to eastern Europe; FYROM, Albania and Greece. I want to invest in infrastructure there and intend to buy construction companies,” he said, adding that he was unfazed by the latest iteration of Greece’s debt crisis.
To read more, please visit greekreporter.com
By Aggelos Skordas
The smaller the better as far as I'm concerned! If the fish are less than 5 cm (2 inches) long, they don't need to be gutted; from 5-7.5cm (2-3 inches) long, they do, and anything over that is too big if it's a picarel! Whitebait smelt (the smallest smelt) is an acceptable substitute, up to 12.5-15 cm (5-6 inches) long, maximum.
Ingredients:
7-8 picarel or small smelt per person for meze, 15-20 per person for main dish
sea salt
freshly ground pepper
flour for dredging
oil for frying
Preparation:
If the fish are 5cm (2 inches) long or more (or if using smelt), use a sharp knife and remove stomach and intestines. Do not slice all the way open. . If using smelt, scrape off the scales with a knife.
Wash fish well and drain. Combine flour, salt, and pepper on a plate.
In a heavy-bottomed frying pan or skillet, heat about a centimeter (1/3 to 1/2 inch) of oil over medium-high heat. Dredge the fish by rolling in flour and shaking off excess, and fry until nicely golden brown on both sides.
Drain on absorbent toweling and serve with lemon wedges.
To read more, please visit greekfood.about.com.
"Defining Beauty" is a stunning array of sculptures and ceramics that includes some of the most familiar works of Greek antiquity. The exhibition also compares how other cultures treated the human form and their attitudes to nudity, from the Mayans to the Assyrians.
"The Greeks invented the human being," Ian Jenkins, the exhibition's curator, said, pointing to Greek philosophy, mythology and democracy, not just the aesthetics of the sculptures that dominate the exhibition.
The exhibition opens with the striking view of a nude goddess Aphrodite from behind. When visitors walk around the statue, they are met with her guarded, threatening gaze.
Though Greek in origin, she is a Roman copy. So is the discus thrower, Myron's Diskobolos, a study in the perfect "balance of opposites", and some of the other statues in the exhibition.
To read more please visit: TheTOC.
