Warmth, dignity and rainbows in today’s Calais distribution

We just had such a reenergising distribution. After days of heavy rain, the sun finally came out during our afternoon in Calais and we were greeted by this incredible rainbow while setting up our services. It provided the perfect backdrop to our day and lifted everyone’s mood after so much gloomy weather. One refugee and I even taught each other how to say ‘rainbow’ in English and Arabic – قوس قزح, or qus qazah.

While the sun was shining we distributed base layer packs to more than 150 people. Because of how sodden the ground has been for the past few weeks everyone was quick to change into their brand-new socks included in the pack. Each pack also comes with underwear and a new top so that people can finally change into fresh, clean clothes.

These packs are incredibly important to help people retain a much-needed sense of dignity in an environment where most rarely get to shower or change their clothes. For some people, it’s their only chance to feel dry and clean or avoid developing itches and other health issues when sleeping rough in Calais.

This Christmas you can help ensure everyone in Calais and Dunkirk can retain their sense of dignity. Give your special someone a £13 gift voucher from our Christmas shop and we will deliver a brand-new outfit to a refugee in your loved one’s name. As well as underwear, socks and a top, this will include a thick hoodie and pair of jogging bottoms to keep people warm in freezing temperatures.

To buy a Christmas voucher go to shop.care4calais.org