In a statement for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025, Pope Leo stated that, ‘in a world darkened by war and injustice, even when all seems lost, migrants and refugees stand as messengers of hope.’
Reflecting on this message, John Arnold, Bishop of Salford said that ‘Despite enduring conflict and displacement, migrants and refugees are often powerful witnesses of faith and resilience. They bring spiritual and cultural gifts that enrich and revitalise the Church and our wider communities. Their presence should not be considered a burden, but a grace.’
At the Refugee Project we are witnesses to this resilience and grace; we consider it a privilege to welcome asylum seekers and to do what we can to support them as they navigate the uncertainties of the asylum system.
Over 600 clients and families receive support currently and new clients continue to register with us from many places in the world, with large numbers from countries such as Iran, Colombia, Peru, Eritrea and Sudan.
We have been pleased to learn from many of our clients from Sudan and Eritrea that they have recently received leave to remain, although housing remains an issue for some clients. Our support of all our clients is only possible because of your generosity, which we really appreciate. Thank you for continuing to support us. Items most urgently needed can be found here.
Since returning in January, many clients have expressed their gratitude to our volunteers for the help and support that they are receiving. Many individuals thanked volunteers once again for the Christmas SVP vouchers that they received. 25 vouchers worth £10 were distributed to those clients whose asylum claim has been refused, with no government support. 430 vouchers worth £5.00 were distributed to those currently seeking asylum.
Our clients always appreciate the fresh food we are able to obtain, so we are really pleased to be collecting from many supermarkets now with a range of fresh produce and, recently, freshly cut flowers, which provide a bit of colour in these dreary winter months.
Providing clothing to clients can be challenging, particularly as many of our clients need the same items which can be in short supply. So, we were pleased recently to learn that the SVP have been successful in securing funding to support those in need with vouchers to purchase clothing from the centre. We hope to make these vouchers available to our clients in the coming weeks.
We continue to rely on the generosity of individuals and parishes for donations for which we are incredibly grateful. As we continue to support so many clients and their families each month, financial support for our work is also essential. Details of our bank account (DHN Justice & Peace Refugee Project) can be found on our webpage. Please consider Gift-Aiding – a Gift Aid Declaration form is available here.
For more details about our work and how you can assist, please contact our Project Co-ordinator at jp.refugeeproject@diocesehn.org.uk or visit our webpage.