(ANSA) - TRIESTE, 02 APR - The European Commission has announced extra funding of 180 million euro for aid projects for refugees currently stranded in Greece.

The new funding will be used in particular to expand the 'Emergency Support to Integration & Accommodation' (ESTIA) programme. The programme helps refugees to move out of camps into urban accommodation, and provides them with cash assistance regularly.

Part of the extra funding will go to other humanitarian organizations working in Greece, to quickly address needs of refugees and migrants such as shelter, health care, and psycho-social support.

"Our humanitarian programmes for refugees in Greece are a clear and loud signal of European solidarity. We continue to deliver on our strong commitment to help refugees in Greece live more secure, normal and dignified lives, and facilitate their integration into the local economy and society," said Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, Christos Stylianides.

Currently, over 45,000 refugees and migrants are stranded in Greece. The European Commission has mobilized more than €1.5 billion to support the country during the migrant crisis. (ANSA).