Wandsworth unites to support refugees
Published: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Wandsworth has provided extra help for refugees in the borough this Christmas, with support coming from both the Council’s gift scheme and the brilliant fundraising, childminding and free English lessons from the voluntary sector.
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Wandsworth Council recently launched a public appeal calling on residents to help bring joy to refugee children who have resettled in the borough by purchasing gift cards. The value was then topped up by the Council and £50 gift cards distributed to refugee children in time for Christmas, making sure they all got a present from Wandsworth this year.
We also made additional winter support payments to hosts on the Homes for Ukraine scheme, to help with increased costs during this period.
Mary Hargreaves from Wandsworth Welcomes Refugees said:
“Christmas and the holiday period is here and it’s a difficult time for all those far from home and without their family. This is especially hard for child refugees and unaccompanied young people.
“As Wandsworth Council’s journey as a Borough of Sanctuary gathers pace, we at Wandsworth Welcomes Refugees warmly encourage this support and the efforts to build a true network of welcome, caring and support for all sanctuary seekers in our community.”
The White Eagle Club is another example of brilliant support being provided this Christmas. Recently, volunteers put together over 600 Christmas gift boxes to send to hospitals in Ukraine.
The volunteers from the White Eagle Club in Balham sprang into action when conflict struck Ukraine in early 2022, with fundraising efforts going to support civilians in Ukraine and to help those arriving in the UK adjust to their new lives. Refugees were helped with donations including clothing, books, electronics and household items.
Weekly English classes not only helped refugees learn language skills, but helped foster a sense of community and belonging. Volunteers also provided vital childminding when parents’ were at their classes, with arts and crafts spreading joy to children in an unfamiliar new environment.
To help those arriving from Ukraine adjust, regular meetings are held on Wednesdays with representatives from the council, Citizens Advice, and others offering free consultations on job search, housing, immigration matters, health matters and exploring new professions.
Recently, volunteers put together over 600 Christmas gift boxes to send to hospitals in Ukraine.