Sam was moved to get involved with the refugee collection at St James Woodside after seeing the photo of drowned Syrian toddler Alan Kurdi – an image which made global headlines in 2015. Sam took the lead in sorting donations. Everything was organised and itemised, using lists given by the charities. A collection was made and sent to Calais (through Care4Calais) and another directly to people fleeing ISIS (through Samara’s Aid Appeal).
Samara’s Aid Appeal then requested that people put together bags containing basic items and gave a list of what was needed. Volunteers made up dignity bags containing sanitary items and smiley bags containing items for children. Many people across Horsforth got involved in this by putting together bags individually or with others or donating money for items.
The Old King’s Arms was one of the drop off points and also hosted fundraisers for the cost of shipping. Other businesses on Town Street got involved, for example by donating raffle prizes.
Later, Samara’s Aid Appeal requested people donated money rather than items. Donations of clothing etc. were therefore given to Yorkshire Aid and Attika Human Support, who sent them to France and Lesvos respectively.
Sam feels that God has directed her compassion for people and their circumstances. He has given her the passion and confidence to get involved when something is worth fighting for. Although she can’t change the world, Sam can try to change it for some people and random acts of kindness do make a difference. Sam has seen how the refugee collection has brought the community together and how God is in the community, not just the church!
The Horsforth Refugee Collection has now stopped, in part due to the complexities of sending items abroad after Brexit. If you wish to support refugees locally, you can find more information here or with a quick googling you’ll find plenty of organisations supporting refugees across the world.
Please bear in mind:
- There are organisations working in Leeds who are asking for clothing and other essential items (some are listed in the above link). It is important that clothing is clean and in excellent condition and that you find out what items are needed.
- The best way to support refugees will depend on the circumstances. In general, organisations working overseas will ask for money rather than donations of clothing.