You all know readers how Malc and I feel our lives have been enriched by helping others, in this case refugees. We knew we had to help when St. Antonin played host to 17 young men refugees.
There was a certain amount of unfounded worry about the boys but I think by the time the boys had moved on there was an overwhelming feeling that not only were these young men no trouble but that they were a pleasure to know. Hopefully Malc and I will stay friends for life.
You will have heard that the government is trying to dismantle the Calais jungle and so it was with no surprise that we heard we are expecting more refugees in the area.
This time the choice will be at Bruniquel where 4 houses of the old gendarmerie will be used to house the temporary incomers.
The possibly 28 young men (not sure if there will be families) will arrive in October.
The team will be headed by Anais Rondeau who did such a good job of managing the last 17.
BUT the really tremendous news which makes Malc and I really proud is that Hujat a refugee in the first influx who has gained asylum, has got a part time paid job in helping with the new refugees. He is a fluent Arabic, English and coming on as a French speaker.
Unlike Rehoboth the houses have beds but nothing else.
This is where we come in, we will be asking for :-
bedside tables
bedside lamps,
bedding
pillowcases
crockery, pots and pans
knives, forks, spoons
They will all aso need jeans, underclothes, warm sweaters, jackets, socks, toiletries. Shoes are difficult and I will try and think of a money making scheme for shoes. If anyone has ideas please contact me.
If you live near Bruniquel and would like to have the pleasure of involvement contact me and I will put you in touch with the French organisers. Our English speaking input is very useful as for most of the young men that is their second language.
That is for starters folks
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