Press Release
Community drop off points for Afghanistan aid
Date: 25 August 2021
Outpouring of support from kind-hearted Essex residents for people arriving from Afghanistan
Essex County Council has been inundated with requests from generous residents across Essex wishing to donate items and clothes to individuals arriving from Afghanistan.
Following an outpouring of support from residents across Essex, more donation points have now been set-up for anyone wishing to donate essential items or clean clothes to help individuals arriving from Afghanistan.
Essex County Council (ECC) has seen an incredible response from communities to date and continues to be inundated with calls and messages from people looking for opportunities to give what they can to support those arriving in the county.
As individuals and families have arrived in Essex, local authority, NHS and voluntary organisations have quickly put in place support to address their immediate health and welfare needs.
In light of so many people wishing to make a positive contribution in any way they can to help others, community donation points are now also available at the following locations and times:
- Refugee Action Colchester, 15 Queen Street, Colchester, CO12PH
- Community 360, Winsley’s House, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG
- Chelmsford Community Resilience Hub – please call 01245 280731
- Hamptons Sports and Leisure Centre, Tydemans, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, CM2 9FH - 26 and 27 Aug 1-3pm
- Uttlesford Community Hub, 45 Stortford Road, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1DQ – Monday to Friday 9.30-4.30
- Touchpoint Day Centre, Crafton Green House, Chapel Hill, Stansted CM24 8AB - Wednesday 9am-1pm, Thursday 9.30am-4.30pm
The items that are most needed include:
- clean clothing and underwear for adults, children and teenagers of all ages
- toiletries, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary items, shower gel
- baby milk and nappies
- general essentials/consumables
- toys and entertainment for children and young people
Cllr Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “Individuals and families arriving from Afghanistan have gone through unimaginable experiences and our thoughts are with them as they start to adjust to a new and unfamiliar place.
“We have been overwhelmed but not surprised by the outpouring of support we have seen from residents and communities across Essex looking to do their bit to help those going through an extremely difficult and challenging time.
“We remain committed to working with partners to ensure that anyone arriving in Essex has the support they need and that their welfare is protected at all times.
“I’d like to thank you anyone who has already donated what they can, as well as everyone involved in working around the clock to make sure these individuals and families have the support they need.”
Residents are encouraged to follow Covid-19 guidance when attending the donation points and that a face covering will be required when inside.
ENDS
For Essex County Council media enquiries:
Press Office at press.desk@essex.gov.uk
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