Elias Giovanidis, an example of solidarity and kindness

Elias Giovanidis is an example of solidarity and kindness during the coronavirus health crisis.

The 24-year-old from Dendropotamos, Thessaloniki cooks and packs meals for families in need.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen presented his humanitarian actions on twitter.

"The crisis has been tough on many Europeans - but we can rely on each other," the President of the European Commission tweeted.

"In Thessaloniki, Elias volunteered with a food bank. With his team, he cooked and packed meals for families in need," she added.

In response to von der Leyen’s statement, Giovanidis said: “I warmly thank the President of the European Commission for her acknowledgment of our work. This recognition propels us forward.”

Giovanidis and the team of volunteers at 'Lighthouse of the World', work tirelessly to gather and organise food donations.

He was first introduced to the organisation by a local priest, Father Athinagoras Loukataris.

“Father Athinagoras is not just a priest, but he is a model for me and he served as my father figure. He helped my finish school and he was always supportive. Now I want to help those who are in need,” Giovanidis told AMNA.

“I feel indebted to repay all of the good that others have done for me, and I have learned to stand in solidarity with others,” he added.

*Read More: Australian-born immunologist Sotiris Tsiodras: Solidarity is the big message