On July 20, UVRC opened Maison 120 – a home for integration and support in Brussels. Here, people can receive consultations on administrative and social matters, assistance with finding housing and employment, enroll in language courses, access psychological support, and learn more about the opportunities available in Belgium.
Maison 120 is a natural continuation of UVRC’s mission: to help people not only adapt after a forced displacement, but also rebuild a sense of stability and belonging in their new society. At the same time, our space is open not only to Ukrainians, but to everyone who needs support on their path towards integration.
Representatives of Belgian institutions, who have been supporting the Ukrainian community in Brussels for years, shared their views on UVRC’s new initiative.
Geoffroy Coomans de Brachène, Member of the Brussels Parliament, Member of the Benelux Parliament, President of Atomium and Municipal Councillor of the City of Brussels, highlighted the importance of such initiatives:
“Today, there are around 92,000 Ukrainians living in Belgium, including nearly 16,000 in Brussels. It is very important to bring this community together. We do not know how long the war will last, but we want to be there and support people who cannot live for years in a state of uncertainty.”
Muriel Vander Ghinst, representative of the office of Minister Ahmed Laaouej, emphasized that Maison 120 is an example of a modern integration model:
“This demonstrates the Ukrainian community’s ability to adapt and show resilience in Brussels, as well as its openness towards other migrant communities. In my opinion, this is what makes this initiative truly innovative and important. It is the creation of an initiative open to everyone who needs stability, support in finding employment, access to social rights and education in the Brussels-Capital Region.”
Peter Michiels, who coordinated the reception of Ukrainians in the Brussels Region for more than three years and worked on issues related to supporting Ukrainians after the start of the full-scale war, commented on the launch of Maison 120:
“I am very happy that there is now, so to speak, a home – a place where people can turn to, a base of support where you can continue part of your activities.”
From now on, all UVRC services are once again operating under one roof. Here, visitors can receive consultations, find the right contacts, take part in educational or professional programmes, or simply come for support when they need it.
Maison 120 is now welcoming visitors. Anyone who needs advice or assistance with questions related to adapting to life in Belgium can reach out to the centre.
Photo credit: Ievgeniia Pavlenko.