Give the Gift of Smiles – Zürich, Switzerland

This year, we once again visited Nemo, the emergency night shelter for young people aged 16 to 23. We also had the opportunity to get to know Mila, a new daytime drop-in center supporting young people in dangerous living situations.

Mila provides a safe, free and confidential space where young people can rest, shower, do their laundry and receive low-threshold counselling and social support, with no obligation or pressure.

The main focus is on prevention, helping to tackle social isolation and homelessness while fostering a sense of belonging, meaningful connections and social interaction. Thanks to Coop and Migros vouchers, young people can shop for ingredients to make their favourite dishes and enjoy preparing meals together.

With its comfortable sofas and inviting spaces, Mila offers a much-needed place to recharge and simply feel at home, welcoming up to 30 young people each day!

Together, Nemo (5 pm–9 am) and Mila (9 am–5 pm) provide support around the clock, with both centres regularly operating at full capacity. Thoughtfully located along a direct subway connection, young people can easily move between the two. (www.nemohilft.ch/mila)

For those facing homelessness, addiction, violence or mental health challenges, the holiday season can be a lonely time. Our Holiday vouchers bring moments of joy, warmth, and a festive spirit that so many of us take for granted.

Both Nemo and Mila have asked us to continue our Holiday voucher project this year, and we are more than pleased to do so. Thank you and Happy Holidays to all of you!