A year since the pandemic: a huge thank you to our volunteers and supporters

It’s been a year since the World Health Organisation declared a global pandemic; so many things have changed.  For refugees, at the edge of society, they became more vulnerable than ever. 

In Northern France, many NGOs pulled out or pulled back due to Covid and there was a 50% reduction in government food provision. But our truly amazing volunteers (with some in-depth safety advice) remained on the front line every single day throughout. We could not be more proud. 

At the start of the pandemic, there was so much uncertainty and fear.  It took real courage to go out every day and face the unknown. But the refugees needed you and you were there. Thank you so much – we will not forget the selflessness you have shown. 

Thanks also to our supporters. Your generosity enabled our emergency appeal to provide nutritious food packs to every single person in Calais and Dunkirk for the first twelve weeks, and on a continuing basis ever since.  What would have happened without you? 

In the U.K we massively stepped up our response too. While many services shut down we have built a 600 strong base of volunteers working tirelessly in hotels and army barracks across the country. 

You provided clothes, shoes and food to people in desperate need, comforted those who are afraid and alone, aided those who need doctors, lawyers or help with their daily life. You have fought alongside them for their rights and been there when they need a friend. 

To all the volunteers and supporters who made our work possible throughout the past year of Covid – the biggest thank you in the world.  It has been an incredible challenge, but we have come together to overcome it. You are quiet and unsung heroes but heroes nonetheless. Thank you.

To support our work, go to care4calais.org/donate