Program to Aid & Integrate Refugees (P.A.I.R.)

Program to Aid & Integrate Refugees (P.A.I.R.) by Safiullah EBRAHIM

P.A.I.R. is an initiative by Serve The City Paris (STCP) that supports new immigrants in Paris by pairing them with volunteers for 1-hour conversational sessions in public settings. These sessions provide immigrants with essential information about local services and programs, while volunteers gain insight into the lives of immigrants and how to support them empathetically.

During each session, volunteers share resources like the Watizat manual and a “do’s and don’ts” guide to Paris, helping immigrants navigate their new city. Immigrants have a chance to discuss their backgrounds and needs openly, fostering a sense of community and dignity. Volunteers are trained in advance on active listening and understanding STCP’s services.

P.A.I.R. sessions take place at new STCP office, with STCP covering drink costs. While sessions are usually one-on-one, volunteers can request an additional participant if desired.

If you’re interested in volunteering with P.A.I.R., please use the ServeNow application to schedule a session. For further questions, contact pair@servethecity.paris.