A great deal has happened over the last month locally in support of Ukrainian refugees. As we go to press (mid-May), around 50 Ukrainian visitors have arrived in our area. What was the “Marton Area Ukraine Support Network” is now the “Congleton Area Ukraine Support Network”, and the Congleton area has been growing!
Many from our parishes have been active not only in hosting Ukrainian guests, but in helping others to navigate the hosting process, in liaising with other organisations and with local government and MPs, and in many other areas. A pop-up boutique has been providing clothing, a house has been fully furnished, bikes and computers donated. While there would have been advantages of the government taking full responsibility for refugees, the current (volunteer driven) system has allowed the generosity of our local community to be expressed to fully welcome our visitors into the community. There are many more Ukrainians in the visa process, and homes being offered. You can find out more, and get involved, through a new website: causn.com.