Afghanistan Crisis
Many have been shocked and saddened by recent and ongoing events in Afghanistan. There has been considerable public sympathy for the plight of Afghan nationals that have helped western forces in recent times who are now trying to flee the country.
The Croydon Refugee Day Centre has for many years offered practical support to asylum seekers and refugees from many nations around the world placed in the Croydon area. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic we have provided clothing and food to those in need, assisted with school placements and have signposted to other organisations who may be able to help.
Whilst we do not know where migrants from Afghanistan will be dispersed to we anticipate a rise in demand for our services as in previous times when more local hotels have been block booked for migrants. Many arrive with just the clothes they are wearing and are desperate for a change and for better footwear.
The Croydon Refugee Day Centre welcomes donations of good quality clothing for men, women and children in all sizes. The demand is particularly for new underwear and new socks, particularly for men. Smaller sizes of casual clothing, T-shirts, jeans, jumpers, jackets and trainers would also be very welcome, or alternatively a financial donation to enable us to buy these and other items in high demand.
We also need volunteers to help sort donated clothing on Monday mornings (from 10am).
Donations of clothing can be brought to our base in the church hall by the side entrance to West Croydon Baptist Church, on the corner of Whitehorse Road and St James Road, Croydon CR0 2JH on Monday mornings. The church office can be contacted on 020 8689 4527.
Rory MacLeod
Chair of Trustees
Croydon Refugee Day Centre