Convoy to Calais
Aid mission for refugees
Fundraisers are planning to send a convoy of donations to help migrants in Calais.
The crowdfunding group- Ayrshire Support For Refugees - are reaching out for donations of shoes, tents, jackets, travelling bags, socks, candles, belts, tracksuits, trousers, jeans, blankets, sleeping bags, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, woolly hats, pants, pots and pans.
One of the organisers, Yvonne McLellan, said: “I am so thankful of the way everyone has rallied round and pulled together.
“We’re all working for the one goal but most importantly it’s about people helping people.
“We felt compelled to set it up because our government has failed in responding for too long so that the only thing left to do was for us to take matters into our own hands.
“This is also not a short - term problem and we hope to continue as long as possible to try and ship aid to as many people as possible. If there are any people with vans or who are willing to drive to Calais, we really need to hear from you.”
Joan Brockie from Ayr said: “Refugees are real people, they deserve compassion, respect and help.
“Giving my time costs nothing, so I’m happy to do whatever I can.”
Julie Zorget from Dundonald said: “I would not stand by if any of my Scottish friends or family had to endure the hardships these people have suffered.
“I am overwhelmed by the goodwill and support of people.”
Former Labour MP and MSP Cathy Jamieson has promised £ 250 towards petrol costs from her party’s local branch in Ayrshire.
The UWS Student Union in Ayr and Bakecraft Troon have agreed to hold donations with more venues in the process of taking part.
Jack Douglas, president of the University of the West of Scotland Student Association, added: “I highly commend the initiative people are taking to help the refugees, the university hope to work with as many people as we can to help.”
To gi v e yo u r su p p o r t , co n t a c t calaismissionayrshire@ gmail. com or visit their Facebook page: Calais Mi ss i o n , Ay rs h i re.