PUPILS, parents and staff at King’s Ely have been collecting food, clothing and tents to help the migrant community living in refugee camps in Calais to support CalAid.
Assisted by boarders in Hereward House under the guidance of Charity Action Coordinator, Barney Jackson, the school filled a minibus with donations for the refugees, which was taken to the London drop-off point on Sunday (October 4).
The situation in Calais is part of a wider migration crisis in Europe, caused largely by the displacement of people from war-torn countries such as Syria, Sudan, Afghanistan and Eritrea. In addition to offering support and assistance, CalAid hopes to change the perception of this crisis from one of hostility and fear to one of concern and compassion.
Students across the school also took part in non-uniform day on Friday (October 2) to raise money for UNICEF, which helps children all over the world facing violence, disease, hunger and the chaos of war and disaster.
Sue Freestone, Principal of King’s Ely, commented: “Fundamental to the state of being a good member of the human race is the instinct to help others in need. I am really pleased that the King’s Ely community has responded to the needs of migrants with characteristically swift generosity.”