As we move into September, the Justice and Peace Refugee Project continues to welcome hundreds of people who are using our services every month, with new clients registering each week from many different places in the world. We could not support so many clients without the generous and on-going contributions of food and toiletries and finance from parishes, schools and individuals.
The impact of receiving food and toiletries free of charge has a significant impact on our clients and we are pleased to report that we have recently registered with OLIO, a charity which deals with surplus food from supermarkets, so now we are able to offer clients chilled foods from Sainsbury’s in addition to the foods we usually offer.
We currently welcome many clients with children and young babies to the project and, during the summer holidays, it is lovely to welcome more children. In addition to providing food, toiletries and good quality second hand clothing, the project is also able to provide babies with formula milk and nappies.
We are really grateful that, this year, the SVP have extended their eligibility criteria for their summer trip program, so that some of our families have been able to take part, enjoying trips to places like Ridley Park and South Shields Beach.
We would like to thank the parishioners of St John of Beverley’s Church, in Haydon Bridge, and some of our volunteers, who organised an Away Day in their church hall & grounds on August 22nd for a group of our clients, predominantly families with children. Luckily the sun was shining and those attending had a very enjoyable day, taking part in a range of outdoor and indoor
activities, sharing lunch and being entertained by local singers and dancers. A good day was had by all involved!
As you may be aware, almost all asylum seekers are not allowed to work and rely on very little state support. This is very difficult for many clients who are keen to work. So, we understand the importance of voluntary work for people seeking asylum while their claim is being considered by the Home Office. Recently, some of our clients have been offered volunteering opportunities
at the SVP centre. This is very much appreciated, helping clients improve their English, make connections and gain work experience. The project is also in the process of recruiting volunteers from our client community.
We continue to rely on the generosity of individuals and parishes for donations for which we are incredibly grateful. Items most urgently needed can be found here. We are thankful for and continue to rely on your generous financial support for our work. 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
