Luxembourg-based solidarity app Riding the Rainbow, created in the aftereffects of the Ukrainian war, is celebrating its second anniversary and launching a holiday campaign to bring joy to families in need.
Riding the Rainbow has announced that it has supported nearly 1,000 refugees with preloved donations since its inception. Backed initially by the André Losch Foundation and l’Oeuvre Nationale de Secours Grande-Duchesse Charlotte, the initiative has grown into a community of nearly 3,000 members. The platform provides a secure space for individuals to donate items to vulnerable groups, addressing essential needs while fostering sustainability, reducing waste and nurturing unity within a diverse society.
Fahad, a Syrian refugee and agricultural engineer, shared his experience, adding: “I loved seeing the smiles and happiness on everyone’s faces, especially the mothers of the children. The app is bridging the gap between refugees and a welcoming society, fostering social integration among people of different nationalities.”
Building on the success of its recent Back-to-School Campaign, which mobilised the community to donate school supplies and essentials to struggling families, Riding the Rainbow is now focusing on its Holiday Season Campaign. This initiative encourages the donation of toys, books, sports equipment and musical instruments to brighten the festive season for families in need. These acts of kindness not only provide material relief but also bring joy and connection during the holidays.
“Riding the Rainbow goes beyond providing aid - said Emanuele Santi, the Co-Founder of the project and President of Afrilanthropy, the Asbl initiating the project - it promotes a culture of direct solidarity and a true integration which aligns with Luxembourg’s promotion of Zesummen liewen (Intercultural Living-Together) while promoting circular economy and sustainable living”.
Recognised by organisations such as the UNHCR, the International Red Cross and Vatican News, the app has been praised as a best practice for fostering solidarity and social integration.
The app is also shaping future leaders by engaging with schools. A recent collaboration with teenagers from the European School Kirchberg, part of the Citizenship Actions for All Programme (CAAP), demonstrates the app’s commitment to inspiring young people. Lèa, a student volunteer, shared: “Volunteering gave me a sense of belonging and accomplishment. Riding the Rainbow became a meaningful way to contribute to others.”
The app also offers users tailored information about solidarity events and volunteer opportunities.
