Diocese of Chichester

Holy Trinity Church in Hurstpierpoint, collected through the month of September, St Peter's, Henfield through October, and St Andrew's, Burgess Hill included a clothes collection in their Harvest giving. Together they have sourced over 1000 items of clothing.

Revd Dr Richard Coldicott, Rector of Holy Trinity Church, Hurstpierpoint said,

‘The clothing collection for Refugees Welcome Crawley was a very timely initiative and was strongly supported by our parishioners, who loved this opportunity to show the love of Christ to our new “neighbours.” Knowing what was given would send a signal of love and support to these vulnerable people proved a powerful motivation.

“The people who sent these clothes must be angels!” That was the reaction of one person who had sought refuge to the bags and bags of good condition clothes that were brought to Crawley. He knew first-hand how much these clothes would make a difference and be appreciated by those who have fled their homes, are seeking refuge in the UK, and in need of the basics.

Jenny Brown who coordinated the campaign to collect the clothes said, “It is amazing how God brings abundance out of our small offerings. And what a witness to the love of Christ! It is so good to be able to demonstrate to men, women and children seeking sanctuary that the local Christian community has a different attitude to that usually heard through the media.”

Crawley has become a welcoming community for refugees and asylum seekers, particularly those fleeing conflict and persecution. The local charity Refugees Welcome Crawley (RWC) plays a significant role in this effort by offering a range of support services to help individuals and families settle into their new environment. They are not a faith-based charity but appreciate the support of local churches in and around Crawley.

Jesus said: “I needed clothes and you clothed me…. Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (from Matthew 25:31-46)