Emigrating involves much more than just moving to a different country. It also means learning new routines, dealing with paperwork, finding a place to live and a job, and getting used to a different environment. Throughout this process, having people who can guide you or share their experiences can make a big difference.
Build a support network for migrants in Spain It doesn't mean knowing a lot of people or interacting only with people from your own country. It can start with a coworker, a neighbor, a local organization, or someone with whom you share an activity.
The important thing is to figure out what places are nearby and start building connections little by little.
What is a support network, and what is it for?
A support network consists of people, communities, and resources you can turn to when you need information, companionship, or guidance.
Each connection can offer something different: a friend can help you cope with being far from home; a coworker can explain how your work environment works; and an organization can guide you through certain procedures or help you find available resources.
You don't need a huge network of contacts. You can start with the places that are already part of your daily routine and expand your circle as you meet new people.
Where to Find People and Places That Support You
You don't always have to look for a specific activity for immigrants. Often, opportunities to meet people arise in places you already frequent or that are close by.
Some options are:
- Neighborhood Activities: libraries, cultural centers, neighborhood associations, sports clubs, and municipal courses.
- Spaces for sharing interests: language classes, reading groups, workshops, volunteer work, or activities related to your hobbies.
- Migrant communities: local groups of fellow countrymen and Latin American communities where people can share experiences, recommendations, and activities.
- Work and Daily Life: coworkers, neighbors, places you shop at regularly, or people you run into often.
It can also help you connect with people of other nationalities. Sharing an immigrant experience doesn't depend solely on being born in the same country: often, shared interests and daily interactions are the starting point for a friendship.
Organizations and Official Resources: Where to Find Help
In addition to personal connections, there are social organizations and public programs in Spain that offer guidance and support in certain areas. The services available depend on the organization, the location, and each person’s circumstances.
To start looking for resources, you can check out these options:
- Your local city hall: Ask about municipal social services, shelter programs, community activities, and integration resources available in your area.
- Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration: his page about the foster care system explains the resources available to applicants and beneficiaries of international and temporary protection who meet the established requirements.
- Social organizations: Organizations such as the Red Cross, ACCEM, and CEAR work in various areas to assist migrants and individuals seeking international protection. Visit their websites directly to learn about the services they offer and whether they can assist you in your situation.
- Resources in your autonomous community: Check the official social services and immigration websites to find programs and organizations in your area.
A practical tip: Search for the name of your city along with terms such as reception of migrants, social orientation, immigrant association o municipal social services. This way, you can find resources nearby instead of relying solely on general recommendations.
Keep in mind that not all organizations offer the same services or handle every situation. If you need information about a procedure, documentation, or your rights, always verify the information with an official source.
How to Build a Support Network Step by Step
It takes time to find people you can trust. Instead of trying to build a whole social circle right away, you can start with simple steps:
1. Take part in an activity that interests you. Going back to the same place every week makes it easier to meet other people naturally.
2. Ask specific questions. Asking where to find a class, how a service works, or what activities are available in the neighborhood can spark a conversation and help you discover new resources.
3. Stay in touch. If you know someone you'd like to keep talking to, suggest grabbing a coffee or meeting up again for another activity.
4. Ask for help when you need it. You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Sharing an experience or asking for a recommendation is also part of building connections.
5. Offer your help whenever you can. Useful information, a recommendation, or sharing how you handled a situation can help someone else who has just arrived. Support networks are strengthened through collaboration.
And remember that having a lot of contacts doesn't always mean you have a support network. What's important is to gradually build relationships and create spaces where you can find guidance, trust, or companionship when you need it.
A network that evolves with you
During the first few months, you may need practical information above all else to get settled. Later on, friendships, professional contacts, or activities that help you feel like you belong may become more important.
Your network can grow and change as your life in Spain progresses. You don't have to find all the resources or build all the relationships at once: starting with a single activity, conversation, or local organization is already a good first step.
Curiara: Maintaining connections matters, too
Building a life in another country takes time, but distance doesn't have to sever ties with those who remain far away. In Curiara We believe it's important to maintain those connections while you build new ones at your destination.
Because feeling like you're part of a new community and staying close to your loved ones can be part of the same story.
Sources
- Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration. International and Temporary Protection Reception System.
- Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration. Humanitarian Aid.
- Curiara. Sending money means saying, “I’m with you, even if I’m far away.”.
