During the following three months a group of volunteers helped them with adjusting to their new circumstances. The French government contracted officials to assist in the preparation of their applications for asylum.
Last night, in St Antonin, there was a reunion for all the volunteers, now linked by a new Association Et Puis d'Ailleurs. The salle des fetes was packed for an evening of singing, dancing and plates of Sudanese and Afghan food. Also present were eleven of the young men. More than half now have some kind of protection in France, with several having been granted asylum, whilst others have the right of civil protection. The rest are waiting to find out whether France will extend the same rights to them.
These young men had effectively brought together this huge collection of volunteers, mostly French, but with some expat supporters. They had brought them together by their grace, by their gentleness, by their good humour and by their persistence in pursuit of a new life. One could only admire their courage. And in truth they have given us more than we have given them. They have given us the belief that we can change lives, that we can stand against the darkness that seems to have taken hold of the world. But above all they have given us hope for our own humanity. Thank you, young migrants.
Chris B
Val says A big thank you to a special Afghan boy who made an elderly lady very happy last night. So much appreciated these flowers, as it means more when I know money is scarce.
A great life is now coming your way Ali, of that I am sure.
