Groningen Unites for UNICEF
A City with a Force for Change — How Groningen is Making a Global Impact for UNICEF
In the heart of Groningen, a powerful movement is taking shape, driven by solidarity, compassion and a shared commitment to making a difference. From online campaigns to art and sport events, and from benefit concerts to creative crowdfunding campaigns, the UNICEF Student Team of Groningen has successfully raised funds to support this year’s main project: Climate Smart Villages of Madagascar.
With the Climate Smart Program in Madagascar, UNICEF helps increase the resilience of communities against the effects of climate change. By providing these villages with access to good sanitation, water systems and sustainable electricity, UNICEF aims to make 20 villages more climate-resilient and sustainable between 2022 and 2025. Additionally, a portion of the funds goes toward emergency relief efforts in crisis-stricken areas like Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. Essential supplies such as food, clean water, medical care, and educational support are being delivered to children affected by war and displacement.
Their efforts, however, extend beyond the student teams. Whether through direct donations, volunteering at events, or simply spreading awareness, the people of Groningen have played a vital role in making these initiatives a success. Their support—whether financial or through active participation—demonstrates the city’s strong sense of community and willingness to help global causes, embracing them wholeheartedly.
The people of Groningen are an exemplary model, as so far, they have helped UNICEF raise 4,687.41€ in less than a year. Every contribution goes directly to UNICEF Netherlands, helping provide life-saving assistance to children in the world’s most vulnerable regions. Groningen’s involvement in this initiative is a powerful reminder that even at a local level, collective action and effort can drive meaningful change on a global scale.
For Groningen Mail readers, this is more than just a fundraising story—it’s a reflection of the city’s spirit, proving that Groningen stands together for those in need, no matter how far away. And so, as the UNICEF Student Team of Groningen pushes forward, fueled by the passion of this remarkable city, one thing is clear—this is only the beginning. Because when Groningen stands up for the children, the world takes notice.
Article written by: Nicoleta Fulina, Nadira Harahap