Peace Haven: Homes for Refugees

A member of St Michael and All Angels, Colehill, is raising money to pay the rent on two properties for a year, and the treasurer there – Alan Motson – has offered to channel the money for the initiative. 

The plan is to secure a flat for a Ukrainian family and a house for an Afghan family. 

The idea came from a Wimborne Methodist – Jennifer Jenkins – who was moved by the plight of Ukrainians fleeing their homeland. But Sharen Green from St Michael’s was very concerned about Afghan families currently holed up in a hotel in the county and Jennifer readily agreed to widen the scheme. 

“We want to give people a start,” Sharen said. 

“The whole country has opened their hearts to the Ukrainians who are suffering terribly and that’s been wonderful to see. 

“But the Afghans are here because they risked their lives and their families’ lives to support British troops. 

“Our government has saved them from being murdered by bringing them here but they are stuck and can’t make a new start. The need is great but we hope to help at least one family.” 

International Care Network - a small Christian charity which has been settling refugees in Dorset for over two decades - will support both families. 

So Peace Haven: Homes for Refugees is asking people to pledge £10 (or a multiple thereof) a month for a year. Over half the money has already been promised. 

“I’m so grateful that my church has taken the venture under its wing, giving Peace Haven immediate accountability and transparency,” Sharen added.