THE generosity of the people of Crediton has been praised.

An appeal for clothing and other items for refugees overseas took place on Saturday, December 2.

Chris Freeman and Abi Hindriks, left, with other volunteers with some of the boxes of clothes ready to be loaded to go to Refugee Aid. AQ 1242
Chris Freeman and Abi Hindriks, left, with other volunteers with some of the boxes of clothes ready to be loaded to go to Refugee Aid. AQ 1242 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The organisers were overwhelmed with the volume of items taken along.

The collection took place at Crediton Congregational Church from 9.30am to 12 noon and boxes and bags full of items were taken along.

The steady stream kept volunteers busy inside the church, sorting and boxing the items as appropriate, whether for adult males, females or children.

Joel from Projexe Engineering and his daughter Ella who packed a van and drove the items to Refugee Aid in Taunton. AQ 1244
Joel from Projexe Engineering and his daughter Ella who packed a van and drove the items to Refugee Aid in Taunton. AQ 1244 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

All items donated were taken directly to Refugee Aid in Taunton, a charity that keeps abreast of current needs in refugee settlements and sends donated items to where they are most wanted.

The collection was organised by Welcoming Refugees in Crediton (WRC).

Abi Hindriks from WRC said: "Thank you to everyone who donated, we have received so many more items than we expected.

"Thanks also to Keith Barker and Kendra Ezekiel for publicity support, drivers Martin, Joel and Jon and also the firms Rose Removals and Projexe Engineering for helping with packing/transport."

WRC is a non-religious local volunteer group that supports refugees to settle into the Crediton community and that advocates for refugee issues more widely. 

WRC has welcomed individuals and families into the area following upheaval and wars in various countries, like Syria and Afghanistan. Since the war in Ukraine more people have become aware of the need for refugees to find safe homes outside their own country.

Many people in the Crediton area have responded with warmth and generosity to the needs of new people in our community. 

There is an ongoing need for practical support for refugees, including landlords who are willing to rent to those with no tenancy history, employers willing to employ people with qualifications from other countries, and general recognition of the challenges faced by people who have been uprooted.

Friendship or a readiness to engage are often the most valued means of providing support. 

WRC welcomes interest and input from new volunteers.

For more information about the group, please contact Anthea Duquemin by email at: [email protected] .