During the tragic years of the German Occupation, 1941–1944, with hunger and terrible hardships, Father Pyrounakis tackled, with all the strength he had and whatever resources he could gather, the problem of the physical and moral survival of the children and youth of our country.
At the same time, when the State and organizations like PFSPA (Patriotic Foundation for Social Protection and Awareness), despite the resources they had, did not dare to operate Camps, he organized three Camps — in Ekali, Penteli, and Perama — and two convalescent homes.
Despite the enormous difficulties in food supply and transportation and the dangers posed by the presence of the Germans, the Camps, with extraordinary efforts, managed to prepare their program and become real oases in the bloodstained and troubled world of the Occupation. The International Red Cross and the intellectual community of the country praised the significant contribution of the Camps, which were also supported by the operation of a training School for staff that educated 280 young people who enthusiastically and actively supported them.
At the end of the Occupation, following a coordinated attack, State Services and Organizations—because their interests and reputations were threatened—succeeded in stopping an effort that had contributed to the rescue of 6,000 children.