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On August 12, 2025, wildfires tore through the Amani region of northern Chios, a place once known for its lush forests, olive groves, and quiet villages like Volissos, Pispilounda, Parparia, and Kipouries. In just a few hours, more than 17,500 acres were reduced to ash. Entire communities were forced to flee as flames surrounded them — some escaping by fishing boats when the roads were cut off.
This is a local, community-led relief effort to help those who lost their homes, farms, and livelihoods. Many families have nothing left — their houses, stables, beehives, and olive trees all destroyed. Shepherds and beekeepers have lost their only sources of income. The soil is scorched, and the ancient olive trees that sustained generations are gone.
One of the local council members, who helped coordinate the evacuation, watched her own home burn to the ground. The next morning, she and her son searched the ashes, hoping to find his baptismal cross. Everything was gone. There are many similar stories — families now staying with neighbours, trying to rebuild from nothing.
Government support has not arrived. This fundraiser goes directly to the Association of Volissians “Saint Markella” based in Athens, which is organizing and coordinating with the local community groups for relief and recovery projects on the ground.
Your donations will help with:
- Rebuilding homes for displaced families
- Supporting farmers and shepherds who lost livestock and feed
- Replacing beehives and restarting local honey production
- Replanting olive and fruit trees to prevent the abandonment of villages
- Stabilizing soil and preventing erosion before winter rains
- Surveying and securing the historic Volissos Castle (c. 600 AD), which was also damaged by fire
- Creating firebreaks and emergency access routes for future safety
This campaign is run by the Association of Volissians “Saint Markella” for the people and needs of Volisso and Amani — all funds will go directly to verified local residents and groups coordinating the relief regarding the replanting and other projects, where the government's arm may not reach. We’ll provide updates with photos and progress reports as rebuilding and replanting begins.
Every contribution makes a difference. Even a small donation can help a family rebuild or replant their land.
Please donate if you can — and share this campaign widely. Together we can help Chios heal and bring life back to one of Greece’s most beautiful, historic regions.
Thank you for your generosity!