In "The Jungle" refugee camp, Calais, France, Jungle Books is a library and school for people to read, learn and enjoy as a safe space in a situation of depravity and degradation. It is also now a kitchen run by volunteers to feed the unaccompanied children who live in the camp.
In buildings built by refugees and volunteers, we provide English classes, one to one reading sessions, computer access and book lending. We open everyday until late into the evening manned by volunteers and refugees alike, the weight of books providing a relaxed calm oasis in a camp of 6000 refugees rejected from society.
When Dawn went to Calais there were 335 unaccompanied children as young as 10 years. This figure changes constantly however these are very young and vulnerable and rely on Jungle Books for safety, support and food as well as education.
Dawn, Bob and Nora are going to The Jungle in August in particular to help at Jungle Books but also to take supplies to the Women and Children's Centre. What we propose to do is raise money to enable us to buy required items in France. For example they need baby wipes and sanitary products. The Jungle Books Kitchen need fresh food such as fruit and vegetables in large amounts to feed many children every day. These items will be purchased in Calais and taken directly into the camp and given to the people who need them. The refugees rely entirely on donations for meals, water and every day essentials that we all take for granted. Many have absolutely nothing on their arrival in Calais. Charities provide most of their needs with clothes and general foodstuffs so it is our intention to raise money to use on our arrival rather than take items that will end up in a warehouse rather than with the people in need.
Any donations however small will be gratefully received
Thank you